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EU to Reconsider 2035 Ban on New Combustion Engine Vehicle sales
Table of Contents
Last updated: December 17,2023,06:44:19 AM PST
The Original 2035 Ban: A Landmark Climate Decision
In 2023,the European Union finalized a regulation mandating that all new cars and vans sold within the bloc from 2035 must be zero-emission. This effectively phases out the sale of new vehicles powered by traditional internal combustion engines (ICE) – gasoline, diesel, and hybrid – as part of a broader effort to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.The regulation aimed to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector,a significant contributor to climate change.
The EU’s decision stemmed from a commitment to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels, as outlined in the European Climate Law. Transport accounts for roughly a quarter of the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions, making it a crucial area for decarbonization. The regulation builds on existing CO2 emission standards for cars and vans, which have been progressively tightened over the years.
The Backlash and Calls for Review
The 2035 ban wasn’t without its critics. Germany,a major automotive manufacturing hub,voiced strong concerns,as did the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA). In late 2023, Germany formally requested a review of the regulation, citing concerns about the pace of the transition and the potential impact on the german economy and jobs. Reuters reported on these concerns in November 2023.
Specifically, the German government argued that the technology for widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) - including battery technology, charging infrastructure, and the availability of sustainably sourced materials – might not be fully mature by 2035. They also raised questions about the affordability of EVs for all segments of the population and the potential for disruption to the automotive supply chain. The VDA emphasized the need for continued growth of synthetic fuels (e-fuels) as a potential pathway to decarbonize existing ICE vehicles.
the European Commission’s Response
Responding to the pressure, the European Commission announced in early 2024 that it would initiate a review of the Euro 7 emission standards, which are closely linked to the 2035 ban. Politico reported that the review will consider the feasibility of allowing continued use of ICE vehicles powered by e-fuels after 2035. This signals a potential softening of the original stance.
The Commission’s decision to review the regulation doesn’t guarantee its reversal. Though, it opens the door to potential compromises. Possible outcomes include allowing a limited number of ICE vehicles powered by e-fuels to be sold after 2035, extending the deadline for the ban, or revising the emission standards to make it easier for ICE vehicles to comply.
What are E-fuels and Why are They Important?
E-fuels, or synthetic fuels, are produced using renewable energy sources – such as solar or wind power – to
