Overview
- European Commission officials are set to unveil proposals in Strasbourg to amend the 2022 decision that requires average new‑car fleet CO₂ emissions to reach zero by 2035.
- Press reporting indicates the plan would soften the full stop to an effective 90% reduction by allowing limited post‑2035 combustion‑engine approvals through compensation mechanisms.
- According to Handelsblatt, a quota model under discussion would permit offsets drawn roughly from up to 30% alternative fuels and about 70% so‑called green steel, with accounting rules still being negotiated.
- Political reaction is split, with EPP leader Manfred Weber claiming the ban is over, Green MEP Michael Bloss warning the shift would deter e‑mobility investment, and Social Democrat Tiemo Wölken open to limited hybrids or range‑extenders after 2035 to protect jobs.
- Any amendments must be negotiated by the European Parliament and member states, a process expected to take months and potentially run into late next year.