EU moves to ease 2035 ban on internal combustion cars
3 days ago
- #automotive industry
- #climate change
- #EU policy
- EU proposes easing the 2035 ban on internal combustion engine cars, reducing the required emissions cut from 100% to 90%.
- Automakers can compensate for emissions by using low-carbon steel, e-fuels, and biofuels.
- The change aims to provide flexibility while still targeting climate neutrality by 2050.
- Plug-in hybrids may continue to be sold under the revised rules.
- The proposal includes measures to boost European battery production and small electric cars.
- Industry and governments like Germany and Italy pushed for the change, citing infrastructure and economic concerns.
- Electric car sales in Europe grew 26% in the first 10 months of 2023, reaching 16% of new car sales.
- Environmental groups criticize the move, fearing it will slow electrification and benefit Chinese competitors.
- China leads in EV adoption with 34% market share, driven by state support and competition.
- U.S. under Trump proposed weaker fuel economy standards, diverging from Biden's stricter rules.