In 2023, the European Union mandated 100 percent reduction in CO2 emissions for new cars going on sale from 2035 onwards. While this lofty target considers emissions across a carmaker’s entire lineup, continuing with the internal combustion engine (even with hybridisation) would not help brands adhere to such stringent emissions regulations. The only practical option left would be to go the ‘EV’ route – essentially ending the internal combustion engine. Just over two years later, however, EU policymakers appear reluctant to implement an ICE ban even within the next decade.
- Germany is at the forefront of this ban, followed by Italy
- Policymakers highlight job losses across Europe as a key factor
- Official statement from respective EU governments expected soon
Europe’s ban on new ICE cars: What has changed?
Germany to continue manufacturing internal combustion engines
During a conversation with a German publication Bild, Manfred Weber, President of the European People’s Party (EPP), stated that, “For new registrations from 2035 onwards, a 90 percent reduction in CO2 emissions will now be mandatory for car manufacturers’ fleet targets, instead of 100 percent. There will also be no 100 percent target from 2040 onwards. This means that the technology ban on combustion engines is off the table. All engines currently manufactured in Germany can therefore continue to be produced and sold.”
The EPP’s president further noted how this move would send a signal “to the entire automotive industry and secure tens of thousands of industrial jobs” in Europe. Italy also appears to have a similar stance on the matter, alongside several major automakers. While we await an official update from the concerned governments, the complete move over to EVs is unlikely to come into effect by 2040.
Report source: Bild (via Reuters)
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