A key vote in the European Parliament concerning the relaxation of the combustion engine ban has been postponed. Representatives from the largest faction, the EVP, and the office of MEP Jens Gieseke (CDU) confirmed to Spiegel that the vote scheduled for next Monday in the Transport Committee will be delayed. It appears that the parties forming the “Center Platform” require more time to reach a compromise, with the delay now estimated to be two weeks.
The EU Commission had proposed at the end of 2025 to moderate the CO2-free vehicle mandate established for 2035 across the EU. In the coming weeks, three committees and the plenary of the European Parliament are set to vote on their respective positions. The EVP faction, which includes the CDU and CSU, intends to go further than the Commission’s recommendation. However, it remains uncertain whether they can find a majority among the Social Democrats and Liberals. In recent months, the EVP has occasionally secured majorities by accepting support from far-right MEPs in other policy areas.
Manfred Weber, the leader of the EVP faction (CSU), told Spiegel that a framework is necessary that balances climate protection with the competitiveness of the auto industry. “I hope for a stable and clear agreement in the political center,” Weber stated.
Four years ago, the European Parliament had passed a majority vote-involving Social Democrats, Liberals, Greens, and the Left-mandating that new vehicles in the EU must emit zero CO2 starting in 2035, or manufacturers face billions in penalties. This effectively means the automotive industry will only be allowed to sell fully electric new vehicles. The industry has mounted massive criticism against this ruling, and even German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) has called for a relaxation of the rules.
