The EU’s Shift on 2035 Ban for Petrol and Diesel Cars

The European Union has made significant changes to its planned 2035 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars, a decision influenced by substantial pressures from the automotive industry, including key figures from member states like Germany and Italy. This article explores the implications of these adjustments and their impact on the EU’s electrification goals.

Changes to the Legislation

Wopke Hoekstra, the European climate commissioner, has characterized the newly proposed changes as a “win-win” for both consumers and the automotive sector. The modifications aim to keep Europe on its path towards electrification while offering flexibility to manufacturers. Previously, laws mandated that all cars and vans produced by 2035 must have zero emissions. The recent proposal aims to soften this requirement to a 90% zero-emission target, allowing for the continued production of certain plug-in hybrids and even combustion engine vehicles past 2035.

Compensatory Measures

In a bid to maintain a balance between traditional and electric vehicles, the remaining 10% of production that doesn’t meet carbon neutrality will need to be offset by sustainable practices, such as utilizing green steel produced in Europe or incorporating biofuels in conventional vehicles. The commission noted, “This will allow plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), range extenders, mild hybrids, and internal combustion engines to continue playing a role alongside electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.”

Reactions from Stakeholders

Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the commissioner for sustainable transport, emphasized that these proposals provide consumers with more choices regarding automotive technology. Meanwhile, industry commissioner Stéphane Séjourné highlighted three pressing challenges for the EU automotive sector: competition from China, a decline in demand, and sluggish technological advancement within Europe.

Concerns from Environmental Advocates

The proposed changes, subject to approval from EU governments and the European Parliament, represent a significant regression from the stringent green policies established over recent years. Critics of the plan argue it undermines Europe’s progress toward electrification. Chris Heron, secretary general of E-Mobility Europe, expressed disappointment, stating it was “a poor moment for Europe to hinder its own advancements.”

Dr. Douglas Parr, policy director at Greenpeace UK, cautioned against following Europe’s lead, asserting that the UK should not engage in “economic self-sabotage.” Similarly, Martin Kaiser, executive director of Greenpeace Germany, criticized the plan as a windfall for Chinese electric car makers.

New Incentives for Small Electric Cars

In conjunction with the revised measures, Hoekstra also revealed plans to expedite the rollout of small electric vehicles. Cars under 4.2 meters long, priced between €15,000 and €20,000, and manufactured within the EU will enjoy lower road tolls and discounts at charging stations. Manufacturers will further receive bonus credits for their carbon outputs.

Small electric car makers will benefit from “super credits” that allow them to accumulate additional carbon credits for their production facilities until 2035. The European Organization of Consumer Bodies (BEUC) praised these initiatives, emphasizing that hybrid vehicles costing around €40,000 remain inaccessible for many households.

Updates on Electric Vans

The commission is also proposing a reduction in its targets for electric vans, cutting the carbon emission reduction goal from 50% to 40% by 2030. This change, following advocacy from leaders like German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, is expected to be perceived as a win for the struggling European automotive industry, particularly in light of mounting pressure from Chinese competitors.

Conclusion

The European Commission’s recent proposals mark a significant shift in its environmental strategy, allowing for a blend of traditional and electric vehicles. While some see it as necessary flexibility for manufacturers and consumers, critics believe it could hinder Europe’s journey towards electrification. The discussions surrounding these changes continue to spotlight the challenges and opportunities faced by the automotive industry in this evolving landscape.

Key Takeaways

• The EU has softened its 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel car sales, allowing for 10% non-zero emission vehicles.
• The changes aim to provide flexibility for manufacturers while still promoting electrification initiatives.
• Responses to the proposals range from supportive of increased options to critical of potential setbacks in emissions goals.
• New incentives for small electric vehicles and revised targets for electric vans are part of the updated legislation.