Story perspectives

EU Eases 2035 Car Ban Amid Pressure from Germany, Italy

12/18/2025

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EU Eases Car Ban

The European Union (EU) will ease its 2035 ban on new combustion-engine cars after pressure from Germany and Italy.
The revised proposal allows up to 10% of non-electric vehicles, including hybrids, to be sold if emissions are offset with renewable fuels or low-carbon steel.
The plan retreats from previous green policies, could slow Europe’s shift to electric cars, and awaits approval from EU governments and the European Parliament.

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Trump Urges EU Exemption

U.S. President Donald Trump urges the European Union to exempt American oil and gas companies from methane regulations.
U.S. diplomats say the methane rules are costly and threaten American gas supplies.
The methane law requires European importers to prove compliance by 2027, and all imports to have low methane emissions by 2030.
U.S. companies will be required to monitor emissions and repair leaks.
Four anonymous officials confirmed the discussions.

History

Historical Context

In 2023, the European Union revised its emissions directive, permitting up to 10% of non-electric vehicles, influenced by lobbying from Germany and Italy. This shift contrasts with the 2019 European Green Deal, which aimed for a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The current proposal highlights the ongoing tension between environmental objectives and economic pressures from the automotive industry.

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EU Eases Car Ban

The European Union (EU) will ease its 2035 ban on new combustion-engine cars after pressure from Germany and Italy.
The revised proposal allows up to 10% of non-electric vehicles, including hybrids, to be sold if emissions are offset with renewable fuels or low-carbon steel.
The plan retreats from previous green policies, could slow Europe’s shift to electric cars, and awaits approval from EU governments and the European Parliament.

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