European Pushback Grows Against 2035 Ban on Gas-Powered Cars

France, Germany, and Italy lead opposition, citing high costs, infrastructure gaps, and economic risks tied to the EU's electrification timeline.

The French National Assembly voted to reject a law aligning with the EU's 2035 ban on new gas-powered car sales, favoring a national target of 2040 instead.
France, Germany, and Italy argue the EU's timeline for transitioning to electric vehicles is too rushed and economically challenging for automakers and consumers.
Critics highlight the high cost of electric vehicles and insufficient charging infrastructure as major barriers to widespread adoption across Europe.
The European Commission faces pressure to introduce flexibility in its regulations while maintaining its broader climate goals, with a review of progress scheduled for 2026.
Global competition from China and potential trade tensions with the U.S. add further complexity to the EU's efforts to electrify its automotive industry.