A cornerstone of the European Union’s climate strategy is set for a significant revision, with political leaders indicating a planned ban on new petrol and diesel car sales from 2035 will be substantially softened. The anticipated policy shift, expected to be formally outlined next week, is sparking fierce debate between industrial interests and environmental advocates.
The original legislation, passed in 2022, mandated that all new cars sold from 2035 must produce zero tailpipe emissions, effectively phasing out traditional combustion engines and most hybrid vehicles. However, senior political figures now confirm this outright “technology ban” will be replaced with a more flexible target.
According to reports, the new framework would require car manufacturers to achieve a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions across their new vehicle fleets by 2035, rather than the full 100% previously mandated. This change would explicitly permit the continued production and sale of new plug-in hybrid vehicles beyond the deadline.
Proponents of the adjustment argue it is a necessary and pragmatic response to economic and consumer realities. They cite concerns over the international competitiveness of Europe’s automotive sector, particularly against Chinese manufacturers, and the need to safeguard industrial jobs. Support has come from several national leaders and major automakers, who point to slower-than-expected consumer adoption of fully electric vehicles and the persistent demand for vehicles with combustion engines for long-distance travel.
“Securing the future of our core industry requires clear signals and flexibility,” stated one senior European parliamentarian, framing the move as vital for economic stability.
Conversely, environmental groups and some automotive brands have condemned the expected U-turn as a major setback for climate action. Critics argue that diluting the 2035 target will delay the essential transition to electric mobility, leaving consumers dependent on more expensive and polluting vehicles for years longer. They warn it could undermine Europe’s broader Green Deal ambitions and cede further ground in the electric vehicle market to international competitors.
“The science on emissions is clear, but this decision appears to prioritize short-term politics over long-term planetary health,” commented a transport analyst, who suggested the move would slow progress toward cleaner air and energy independence.
Alongside the revised emissions target, the EU is also expected to propose a new incentive package aimed at boosting the production and purchase of small, affordable electric vehicles made in Europe. This initiative is seen as a direct strategy to counter the growing market share of imported electric cars.
The European Commission has acknowledged that discussions on providing “more flexibility” are ongoing, with a final announcement anticipated shortly. The decision will define the pace of Europe’s automotive transformation for the next decade.
