The European Commission is preparing to revise its plan to phase out new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035, responding to pressure from member states and the automotive industry. Instead of the current 100 % target, the commission will propose a 90 % reduction in CO₂ emissions from 2021 levels, allowing the continued sale of some hybrid and range‑extender vehicles that still burn fossil fuels. Automakers would be required to offset the remaining emissions by using lower‑carbon steel and alternative fuels such as synthetic e‑fuels or non‑food biofuels.
The revised plan also eases the 2030 target for vans, lowering the required CO₂ cut from 50 % to 40 %. These adjustments aim to address industry concerns about trade tensions, competition from China, and supply‑chain disruptions. The EU’s original 2023 plan had sought zero emissions from all new cars and vans sold from 2035.
The proposal has drawn criticism from some industry insiders, who argue it could undermine the bloc’s long‑term competitiveness. Michael Lohscheller, CEO of Swedish electric‑vehicle maker Polestar, warned that backtracking on the 100 % zero‑emissions target could hurt Europe’s ability to compete. William Todts, executive director of clean‑transport advocacy group T&E, also said that clinging to combustion engines would not make European automakers great again.
The shift follows lobbying by major automakers and calls from several countries, including Germany and Italy, which have been affected by the EU’s struggling industry. Any changes to the plan must still be approved by EU member states and the European Parliament before taking effect. This revision represents a significant change in the EU’s flagship Green Deal, which seeks to reduce the bloc’s carbon footprint and promote sustainable transportation. The outcome will be closely watched for its implications on the EU’s climate goals and the future of the automotive sector.
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