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EU Weighs Changes to 2035 Combustion-Car Ban as Reports Flag Possible 2040 Delay

Unconfirmed industry briefings point to a 2040 shift, with capitals split over exemptions versus electrification.

Overview

  • The European Commission plans to present an auto-sector relief package tied to a review of the 2035 rule on December 10, though officials may delay the timing.
  • The Times reports industry figures expect the deadline to slip to 2040, but the Commission has not confirmed any change and declined to comment.
  • Germany is urging allowances for plug-in hybrids, range-extenders and highly efficient engines, Italy seeks a biofuels pathway, and six Central and Eastern European states asked Brussels to permit hybrids and low‑carbon fuels beyond 2035.
  • France warns that watering down 2035 would endanger European battery investments and has floated mandatory electrification for corporate fleets using EU-made vehicles, a move BMW criticized.
  • Automakers cite slowing EV demand and cheaper Chinese imports to argue for technology-neutral rules, while environmental groups oppose biofuel exemptions and some brands, including Volvo and Polestar, publicly reject any slowdown.