EU Parliament Softens Car Emissions Rules, Raising Concerns for Electric Vehicle Growth
The European Parliament’s major groups have agreed to relax the planned cut in CO2 emissions for new cars by 2035, a move criticised by Green lawmakers as harmful to the EV market.
In the European Parliament, the three biggest political groups have struck a tentative agreement to dilute the EU’s 2035 emissions standards for newly sold cars. Instead of the ambitious reductions championed by Germany and France, the compromise allows a higher level of CO2 output, prompting Green MEP Michael Bloss to label the deal a setback for the continent’s electric-vehicle expansion. Conservatives and liberals are driving the softer targets, while the Social Democrats appear to be wavering.
Spain opposes the relaxation, arguing it goes too far, and France seeks tighter rules for supporting European production. The draft also permits a margin for manufacturers that incorporate climate-friendly steel, though the definition of such steel is not yet established. The agreement is still provisional and must be finalized before becoming law.
Why it matters
Loosening emissions rules could slow Europe's transition to electric cars and affect climate targets.
How this story developed
- Oct 15 France and Germany strike deal to safeguard Europe's car industry with looser CO2 targets and stricter Made-in-Europe rules
- Oct 17 France and Germany announced joint talks to revise the EU 2035 emissions target and link subsidies to European production.
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