Overview

• A six‑page concept paper sent to automakers calls the 2035 phaseout of new combustion technology achievable if all actors act decisively in a coordinated way.
• The paper cites more than one million public charging points across Europe and roughly 25% growth in EV sales in the first half of 2025 as evidence of accelerating electrification.
• Narrow carve‑outs for models such as plug‑in hybrids or range extenders are not ruled out, with any decision postponed to a formal review expected in spring 2026.
• Planned support measures include a joint push for European battery cell production, incentives for smaller affordable electric cars, and stronger automotive software capabilities.
• Friday’s session with industry in Brussels is described as preparatory and aimed at collecting positions rather than producing far‑reaching policy changes.