Cleaner Vehicles, Lower CO₂ Emissions: EU Bans Combustion-Engine Vehicles by 2035

EU's Climate Neutrality Goal Drives Change

Current Affairs Coverage on Major German News Outlets

In a significant step towards achieving its climate neutrality target by 2050, the European Union (EU) has announced a ban on the sale of new combustion-engine vehicles starting in 2035. This bold move aligns with the EU's efforts to reduce CO₂ emissions and transition to cleaner transportation systems.

The news was widely reported by German news outlets, including tagesschau (12:00 PM), tagesschau24 (12:40 PM), and Inforadio (2:05 PM) on February 14, 2023. The ban applies to all new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles registered in the EU, effectively phasing out gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles.

Clean Combustion Engines as a Transitionary Measure

While the ban targets combustion-engine vehicles, the EU acknowledges the need for a gradual transition. As such, the ban allows for the registration of new vehicles equipped with combustion engines that emit zero CO₂ during operation. This provision enables the continued use of technologies such as hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles that can run on both gasoline and electricity.

Industry Projections and Environmental Concerns

According to Transport Environment, a think tank, industry projections indicate that only 17% of new vehicles sold in 2035 will meet the zero-emission requirement. This raises concerns about the pace of transition and the potential impact on the automotive industry. Nevertheless, the EU remains committed to its ambitious climate goals and expects the ban to accelerate innovation and investment in electric vehicle technologies.

Final EU Agreement after Ministerial Consensus

The decision follows a provisional agreement reached by the European Parliament and EU member states in June 2022. The final agreement was reached after months of negotiations and aligns with the EU's broader efforts to implement the European Green Deal, which aims to make Europe climate-neutral by 2050.