Six EU Countries Seek to Ease 2035 Ban on Gas-Powered Cars

Post by : Saif Nasser

Six European Union countries are asking the European Commission to reconsider the strict ban on selling internal combustion engine (ICE) cars set for 2035. The request comes just days before the EU plans to release a new package of measures for the automotive industry.

The letter, signed by the prime ministers of Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, Poland, and Slovakia, asks the EU to allow hybrid vehicles or other technologies beyond 2035. They also called for the inclusion of low-carbon and renewable fuels in plans to reduce transport emissions.

The ban on ICE vehicles, agreed in March 2023, requires that all new cars sold in the EU from 2035 be zero-emission. At the time, expectations for electric vehicles (EVs) were high, but carmakers have faced challenges. Demand for EVs has been slower than expected, and competition from China has increased pressure on European manufacturers.

In their letter, the leaders emphasized the need to balance climate goals with economic competitiveness. “We can and we must pursue our climate goal in an effective way, while not killing our competitiveness in the meanwhile since there is nothing green in an industrial desert,” they wrote.

The European Commission is set to present a support package for European automakers, which may include measures to ease the ban. The release was initially planned for December 10 but could be delayed amid the new requests.

Critics of relaxing the ban warn that allowing hybrids or other fuel types could slow progress toward reducing carbon emissions. Supporters argue that without flexibility, European carmakers may lose ground to foreign competitors, risking jobs and industry stability.

This debate highlights the tension between environmental goals and industrial realities. While the EU aims to cut emissions and fight climate change, member states are keen to ensure that its automotive industry remains strong and competitive on the global stage.

The coming weeks will show whether the European Commission will maintain its original 2035 ban or adjust rules to allow a gradual transition that includes hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles. The decision will have significant implications for Europe’s climate policies, its car industry, and consumers who are considering switching to electric vehicles.