EU Faces Criticism Over Proposed Softening of 2035 Car Emissions Ban
Two years ago, the EU adopted a 2035 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars, which was hailed as a significant step in climate leadership. However, recent European Commission proposals aim to water down the ban, allowing some new CO2-emitting cars to be sold after the original cutoff date. Stéphane Séjourné described this move as a lifeline to the car industry.
Critics, including Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, argue that this signals policy inconsistency and contend that the transition to electric vehicles should accelerate to maintain Europe's competitiveness. The editorial suggests that the shift represents a loss of nerve in Brussels amid economic headwinds, geopolitical uncertainty, and rising net-zero scepticism from far-right factions.
Competition from Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, such as BYD, is increasing despite EU tariffs, posing a challenge to European carmakers. The article recommends focusing on fiscal incentives, improving charging infrastructure, and ensuring a level playing field to stimulate demand for European-made electric vehicles.
Road transport is responsible for about one-fifth of the EU's greenhouse gas emissions, with over 60% of that coming from cars. The 2035 ban was part of a broader aim to support the EU's 2050 net-zero target. Overall, the proposed backsliding on the ban is framed as detrimental to both the environment and the future viability of Europe's car industry.
