EU Signals Shift on 2035 Petrol and Diesel Car Ban After Industry Pressure

Post by : Saif Nasser

The European Union is preparing to change course on its plan to end the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035. After strong pressure from major car-producing countries and automakers, the European Commission is expected to announce a revised approach that could delay the ban or make it less strict. The move reflects growing concern that the current rules are too hard for the industry and consumers to meet.

The original law, approved in 2023, required all new cars and vans sold in the EU from 2035 to have zero carbon emissions. It was meant to push Europe quickly toward electric vehicles and cut pollution. However, officials and industry sources say the Commission may now push the target back by five years or allow exceptions that would keep combustion engines on the road longer.

Germany and Italy, home to large auto industries, have led calls for change. European carmakers say they are under heavy pressure from cheaper Chinese electric vehicles and strong competition from the United States. At the same time, many European buyers are holding back because electric cars are more expensive and charging stations are still not widely available.

Automakers argue that demand for electric vehicles has not grown as fast as expected. Even with EU tariffs on Chinese-made electric cars, European companies say it is hard to compete on price. They warn that sticking to the original ban could lead to factory closures, job losses, and reduced investment in Europe.

Many in the industry want a broader approach that includes different technologies. They are asking the EU to allow continued sales of combustion engines that run on low-emission fuels, such as advanced biofuels and e-fuels made using renewable energy. Supporters say this would give consumers more choices while still reducing emissions.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has shown openness to these ideas, saying alternative fuels could play a role in the transition. Some experts believe combustion engines will remain part of transport for many decades and should be improved rather than banned outright.

However, electric vehicle makers and clean transport companies strongly disagree. They warn that changing the rules now will slow investment in charging networks and battery factories. EV supporters say Europe risks falling further behind China, which is already a global leader in electric vehicle production.

Environmental groups also oppose any delay. They argue that biofuels are limited in supply, expensive, and not truly climate-friendly. Campaigners say Europe must stay committed to electric vehicles if it wants to meet its climate targets and protect public health.

Alongside the possible changes to the ban, the Commission is expected to propose new ways to boost electric car sales, especially in company fleets, which account for most new vehicle purchases in Europe. Automakers prefer tax breaks and subsidies rather than strict quotas. There are also discussions about creating a special category for smaller, cheaper electric cars to make them more affordable.

The debate shows how difficult the green transition can be. Europe must balance climate goals with economic reality, consumer readiness, and global competition. The decision the EU makes now will shape the future of its car industry and its fight against climate change for years to come.