Overview

• Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume has questioned the EU's fixed 2035 deadline for phasing out new combustion engine vehicles, advocating for flexible milestones based on EV adoption progress.
• Blume praised the EU Commission's proposal for a three-year CO₂ compliance period from 2025 to 2027, emphasizing its balance between climate goals and industry needs.
• He assured that the proposed compliance mechanism would not compromise CO₂ reduction targets while offering automakers greater adaptability in meeting emissions standards.
• Blume highlighted the need for improved EV infrastructure, including expanded urban and regional charging networks, lower energy costs, and stronger EV subsidies to accelerate adoption.
• The EU's compliance proposal now awaits negotiation in the European Parliament and among member states, with potential for further amendments to emissions targets and the 2035 combustion engine ban.