Story perspectives

EU Softens 2035 Ban on Petrol Cars Amid Backlash

12/12/2025

Summary

Story summary

The European Union plans to soften its 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel cars.
Senior EU officials, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, back the change, citing flexibility amid industry concerns.
The revised target requires a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions, not a complete ban.
Environmental advocates condemn the move as undermining the EU's green initiatives.
The UK may delay its similar ban due to these developments.

History

Historical Context

The 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change marked a pivotal moment in global climate policy, aiming to curb greenhouse gas emissions. The European Union's current plan, targeting a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions, reflects ongoing tensions between environmental objectives and industrial pressures, particularly from leaders like German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. This shift threatens previous green commitments and could delay critical regulations, such as the UK's ban on petrol and diesel cars by 2030.

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Story summary

The European Union plans to soften its 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel cars.
Senior EU officials, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, back the change, citing flexibility amid industry concerns.
The revised target requires a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions, not a complete ban.
Environmental advocates condemn the move as undermining the EU's green initiatives.
The UK may delay its similar ban due to these developments.

1 / 2