European Automotive Industry Faces Reality Check on CO² Emissions
The European automotive industry is facing a harsh reality: the European Union's (EU) goals for reducing CO² emissions from vehicles, including a 100% decrease for new cars by 2035, are no longer considered achievable. The ambition to only sell zero-emission cars and vans within the next decade now seems unrealistic. This is according to the presidents of European automobile manufacturers and equipment suppliers associations. However, the commitment to the EU's carbon neutrality goal by 2050 remains intact.
Ursula von der Leyen to Meet with Automotive Industry Leaders
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is set to meet with top automotive industry leaders on September 12 to discuss the future of this strategic industry, which is currently facing a double pressure: increasing competition from Chinese manufacturers in the electric vehicle market and the imposition of tariffs by the United States. Additionally, the industry is grappling with other major challenges, including:
- Near-total dependence on Asia for battery supply
- Uneven charging infrastructure
- Rising production costs
Industry Calls for Review of CO² Emissions Regulation
Representatives from the sector believe it is necessary to revisit the current regulation on CO² emissions. While electric vehicles will play a central role in the transition, they cannot be the only solution. It is essential to maintain a place for alternative technologies such as:
- Rechargeable hybrids
- Range extenders
- High-efficiency thermal engines
- Hydrogen
- Decarbonized fuels
Recap: EU's Previous Concessions and Growing Calls to Reconsider
In March 2025, the European Commission already granted a deadline extension to manufacturers to meet the initial CO₂ emission reduction targets set for 2025. Moreover, an increasing number of voices are now calling on the EU to reconsider its ban on combustion engines, scheduled for 2035.
