In a stunning reversal that has left green activists furious, the European Union is set to water down its drastic 2035 ban on internal combustion engines, reducing the planned 100% CO₂ emissions cut for new cars to just 90%. This dramatic backpedal comes amid intense pressure from struggling automakers and key member states, effectively keeping petrol, diesel, and hybrid vehicles alive beyond the original deadline. Senior MEP Manfred Weber revealed the bombshell, declaring the full "technology ban on combustion engines is off the table" – a massive win for the automotive industry facing economic meltdown!
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Originally agreed in 2023, the EU's fleet-wide target demanded a 100% CO₂ reduction by 2035 compared to 2021 levels, forcing a complete shift to zero-emission vehicles. But now, with giants like Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz reporting plunging sales due to weak EV demand, skyrocketing energy costs, and fierce Chinese competition, Brussels is caving in. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and other leaders have demanded "flexibility" to protect jobs and competitiveness.
Latest update: As of December 12-13, 2025, multiple reports confirm the European Commission is preparing to formally propose this softening, with Weber stating a 90% reduction will be mandatory instead of 100%, allowing up to 10% of new cars to use combustion tech possibly via e-fuels or hybrids (source: The Guardian; source: Reuters).
This climbdown exposes the harsh reality: aggressive green policies are crushing Europe's carmakers, who warn of lost jobs and industrial decline. While eco-extremists cry betrayal, millions of drivers breathe a sigh of relief – your favorite petrol car might not be doomed after all!
The Original Plan and Why It's Crumbling
The 2023 regulation aimed to phase out CO₂-emitting new cars and vans entirely by 2035. But criticism exploded from major players like Mercedes-Benz and BMW. Sales are tanking in Asia, EVs aren't selling as hoped, and energy prices have soared post-Ukraine conflict.
Weber's Explosive Revelation
Manfred Weber, head of the European People’s Party, told media: “From 2035 onwards, a 90% reduction in CO₂ emissions will now be mandatory for automakers’ fleet targets.” This opens the door for continued production of efficient hybrids and potentially e-fuel vehicles.
Industry in Crisis: The Real Reason Behind the Panic
Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes have all seen weaker deliveries this year. Add US tariffs, Chinese EV dominance, and expensive energy alternatives – Europe's auto sector is on the brink. Chancellor Merz warned: without changes, the industry has "no future in Europe."
Original report based on: RT.com