EU Commission Remains Committed to Climate-Friendly Transport Goals

The European Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving climate-neutral vehicles in the EU by 2035. According to a recent concept paper, it remains confident that the goal of 100 percent clean and affordable mobility within the next decade is still attainable.

Sales of electric vehicles in Europe have shown a significant increase, with a rise of 25 percent in the first half of the year, leading to an electric vehicle market share of 17 percent. Starting in 2035, the EU plans to prohibit the registration of new gasoline and diesel vehicles, aiming to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the transportation sector. However, there is considerable pressure from representatives of Germany's ruling parties and industry leaders to reconsider the ban on combustion engines.

Today, the European Commission, led by President Ursula von der Leyen, is meeting with industry representatives from the automotive sector. The rising sales figures for electric vehicles support the Commission's position. The paper emphasizes that the automotive industry has already received substantial assistance, including additional flexibility granted in May to help manufacturers meet EU climate targets for 2025.

Despite advancements in electrification, the Commission acknowledges that the automotive sector faces challenges, such as sluggish demand and increasing competition from non-European manufacturers. Many automakers and suppliers are struggling with declining profit margins. The Commission's ongoing discussions with the automotive industry aim to address these challenges while maintaining a strong focus on achieving climate objectives.