EU Revisits 2035 Combustion Car Ban Under Industry and Political Pressure
European leaders and automakers push to soften the zero‑emission vehicle mandate as economic strain and EV rollout slow. Climate groups warn of climate and public health risks if the ban is diluted.
European Union leaders and automakers are advancing plans to revisit the bloc’s 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel cars amid sluggish electric vehicle adoption and industrial strain. Climate advocates caution that any scaling-back could undermine both emissions targets and public health.
What We Know
The EU’s current regulation mandates zero‑emission new car sales by 2035 as part of its push toward carbon neutrality by 2050. Governments are now requesting a review to possibly allow plug‑in hybrids or vehicles using synthetic and biofuels beyond the deadline. President von der Leyen has signaled that the Commission will present a revised proposal before year’s end. France and Spain—while affirming support for the zero‑emission pathway—are pressing for incentives favoring European production. Meanwhile, industry leaders including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Stellantis argue that flexibility is needed to protect jobs and competitiveness amid economic headwinds and EV deployment delays.
What It Means
Weakening the 2035 ban risks undercutting climate targets and slowing the shift to electric vehicles, diminishing investor confidence in EV infrastructure and domestic battery production. Environmental and health advocates warn easing the mandate could prolong harmful air pollution and derail the EU’s leadership on climate and green industrial transformation.
The Backstory
Adopted in 2022, the 2035 ban reflects the EU’s strategy to cut road transport emissions sharply by 2030 and advance toward a zero‑emissions vehicle fleet. However, auto industry pressure and gaps in charging infrastructure have fueled a debate over whether the timeline remains feasible.
What’s Next
The European Commission is expected to deliver revised CO₂ rules by the end of the year. EU member states and Parliament will then enter a legislative review process. The outcome will determine whether the bloc maintains its current trajectory or pivots toward a more gradual transition.
