EU’s largest political group aims to revert combustion engine ban

The European People’s Party is preparing a document for the European Parliament to review the 2035 policy next year.

The European People’s Party (EPP) is challenging the European Union’s 2035 ban on combustion engines, preparing a document to urge the European Parliament to revisit the policy next year.

As reported by Reuters, the draft document calls for a revision of the law to allow the continued sale of combustion engine vehicles running on biofuels and other alternative fuels beyond 2035.

Additionally, it emphasises the need to support plug-in hybrid vehicles as part of the policy.

The EPP currently holds a majority within the 27-member European Commission, including President Ursula von der Leyen, and support from automakers and national governments.

Luca de Meo, President of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) and CEO of Renault, has warned that the policy could lead to €15 billion in fines for the industry. He emphasised that the 2025 CO2 limits are an urgent issue, adding that there are still 10 years to find a solution to the 2035 combustion engine ban.

This move is a direct response to the challenges facing European car manufacturers, who are struggling with lower-than-expected electric vehicle sales and increasing competition from Chinese manufacturers.

The EPP also proposes delaying the 2025 targets to 2027 or adjusting the way carmakers’ compliance is measured.