EU seeks to end sales of new combustion-engine vehicles by 2035

(MENAFN) The European Commission is reportedly preparing to ease its plan to phase out new combustion-engine vehicles by 2035, following pressure from automakers and several member states. Under the revised approach, the 2035 target would shift from a full zero-emissions requirement to a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions compared with 2021 levels, allowing continued sales of some plug-in hybrids and range extenders that use fossil fuels.

Automakers would need to offset the remaining emissions through measures such as using lower-carbon steel produced in the EU and adopting synthetic fuels or non-food biofuels, including agricultural waste and used cooking oil. The 2030 CO2 reduction target for vans would also be eased from 50% to 40%.

Critics warn that the shift could undermine both the EU’s climate goals and the long-term competitiveness of its automotive industry. Michael Lohscheller, CEO of Swedish EV maker Polestar, said backtracking could harm Europe’s ability to compete globally, while William Todts, executive director of transport advocacy group T&E, warned that clinging to combustion engines would not make European automakers “great again.”

The proposed change reportedly comes after lobbying by major manufacturers and concerns from countries including Germany and Italy, amid trade tensions with the US, competition with China, supply chain disruptions, and high energy costs following the reduction of Russian gas supplies. Any adjustment must still be approved by EU member states and the European Parliament.

MENAFN17122025000045017281ID1110491353