A major policy shift is imminent for the European Union's flagship environmental legislation, with the 2035 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars set to be significantly watered down. A senior European Parliament politician has confirmed the planned relaxation, which is expected to be formally announced by the European Commission.
Key Figures Signal Major Policy Retreat
The decision, anticipated to be made public in Strasbourg, represents a substantial climbdown from the original goal of a total phase-out. Manfred Weber, an influential Member of the European Parliament and President of the European People's Party group, revealed the change to Germany's Bild newspaper. He stated unequivocally that "the technology ban on combustion engines is off the table."
This move follows intense lobbying from several European leaders and the automotive industry. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz publicly expressed his support for the softening of the rules, arguing that millions of combustion engine cars will remain on global roads for decades to come. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has also been a vocal advocate for the change.
New Rules: From 100% to 90% Reduction Target
Instead of the initially mandated 100% reduction in CO2 emissions for new car fleets from 2035, manufacturers will now face a 90% reduction target. This crucial alteration will permit the continued sale of new hybrid vehicles, which combine a combustion engine with an electric battery.
Weber framed the rule change as a vital protective measure for European industry, stating it sends an important signal "to the entire automotive industry and secures tens of thousands of industrial jobs." The adjustment reflects deep-seated concerns over the economic impact of a full ban on one of Europe's cornerstone manufacturing sectors.
Environmental Backlash and Consumer Impact
The expected U-turn is poised to provoke fierce criticism from environmental campaigners. They are likely to condemn it as a gutting of the EU's core Green Deal policies, arguing it undermines the bloc's climate commitments.
Analysis from energy experts suggests the delay will have a direct cost to consumers. Colin Walker, Head of Transport at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, warned that confirming these changes would effectively "keep millions of European families stuck driving dirtier and more expensive petrol cars for longer."
The formal announcement, expected imminently, will mark a pivotal moment in Europe's transition to electric mobility, balancing industrial and employment concerns against ambitious environmental targets.
