Overview

• An EU Commission concept paper says the phase-out of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035 remains achievable, citing a 25% rise in EV sales in H1 2025, a 17% market share and more than one million public charging points.
• Ursula von der Leyen frames today’s strategic dialogue with automakers as preparatory, with any substantial policy changes deferred to a formal review expected in spring 2026.
• The paper leaves room for narrowly defined exceptions such as plug-in hybrids or range extenders, though decisions on such carve-outs will come later based on further assessment.
• Automakers and labor groups push for more flexibility and support, with ACEA and VDA advocating technology‑neutral options and IG Metall warning of job losses exceeding 50,000 from June 2024 to June 2025.
• The Commission notes recent relief measures—including eased 2025 CO₂ targets and lower tolls for zero‑emission trucks—and is drafting a plan to boost EVs in company fleets, as three German state leaders urge reform of heavy‑vehicle climate fines due to charging shortfalls.