The European Commission is reportedly reassessing its planned ban on internal combustion engine vehicles, signaling a potential shift in climate policy and sparking debate over the ambition of Europe’s green transition. According to sources within the Commission, revealed by German business daily “Handelsblatt”, Brussels is contemplating a new compensation model that could allow for the continued registration of vehicles powered by combustion engines beyond 2035.
The proposal centers on the introduction of fixed quotas allowing for emissions offset through alternative fuels, potentially accounting for up to 30% of the required reductions. A further 70% would be covered by utilising “green steel” in vehicle production, although the precise mechanisms for calculating these offsets remain under intensive negotiation.
While the formal target of 100% emissions reduction remains unchanged “de jure” the proposed system would effectively reduce emissions by only 90% “de facto” through the implementation of compensation strategies. This represents a significant compromise, likely aimed at appeasing automobile manufacturers and member states concerned about the potential economic and social disruption caused by a complete and immediate ban on combustion engines.
Critics argue that this maneuver undermines the EU’s commitment to aggressive climate action and risks sending a signal of waning resolve in the face of the escalating climate crisis. The shift is viewed by some environmental groups as a concession to industry lobbying and a potential backsliding on Europe’s leadership in combating climate change. The proposed framework raises critical questions regarding the integrity of emissions targets and the transparency of the offsetting mechanisms themselves.
The official legislative proposal is slated for release by the EU Commission on Tuesday and is expected to trigger intense scrutiny and potentially significant revisions during the legislative process. The debate will undoubtedly focus on the balance between ambitious climate goals and the economic realities of the automotive sector, with significant political ramifications for the EU’s broader climate agenda.
