Europe’s electric vehicle (EV) industry is urging the European Commission to maintain its commitment to phasing out CO₂-emitting cars and vans by 2035, warning that any delay would jeopardize climate goals, investment certainty, and Europe’s global competitiveness. Over 150 industry leaders, including major EV manufacturers like Volvo Cars and Polestar, signed a letter emphasizing that the current trajectory is not only feasible but essential for long-term success.

The appeal comes amid growing pressure from some traditional automakers and suppliers who argue that the 2035 goal is too ambitious under current conditions. While companies like Mercedes-Benz have called for more time, EV-focused players insist that backtracking now would disrupt momentum in infrastructure, software development, and battery innovation that are already well underway.

Polestar’s leadership emphasized that the 2035 target has served as a clear policy signal, encouraging capital investment and scaling up production. Companies like Fastned have similarly stressed that charging infrastructure rollouts rely on policy stability. A report by the nonprofit Transport & Environment supports this view, noting that most European automakers, except a few, are on track to meet interim CO₂ reduction targets for 2025–2027.

Meanwhile, Stellantis’ new CEO has called for greater flexibility from the EU. Ahead of a scheduled meeting with policymakers on September 12, he advocated for continued hybrid vehicle support, incentives to replace aging car fleets, and longer compliance windows for emissions targets. He also highlighted specific challenges in the light commercial vehicle market, calling for urgent regulatory adjustments.

These competing visions highlight a pivotal moment for Europe’s automotive future. The EV industry views the 2035 zero-emissions target as a cornerstone of decarbonization and economic opportunity, while legacy manufacturers push for a more gradual, adaptive transition. What the EU decides next will have lasting implications for the continent’s climate ambitions, industrial strategy, and leadership in the global EV race.

Source:

https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/europes-electric-car-industry-urges-eu-not-delay-co2-emission-targets-2025-09-07/