Europe's 2035 combustion engine phase-out is getting softer. The European Parliament's environment committee backed a proposal from the EPP, S&D and Renew groups for an 87.5% CO2 cut for new cars by 2035, with a top-up of up to 7.5% from production using low-carbon steel made in the EU, bringing the total to 95%, Reuters reports. The European Commission had proposed 90%.
Electrive reports that the vote was 48 in favor, 30 against and two abstentions, which means new combustion and hybrid registrations would still be possible after 2035. Small or highly efficient EVs would qualify for super credits. «Our agreement marks a turning point for the European automotive industry,» said Italian EPP MEP Massimiliano Salini.
Campaign group T&E called the vote another step in the wrong direction. Committees also downgraded mandatory zero-emission targets for corporate fleets to aspirational goals. The full Parliament is due to vote in December, before talks with EU governments.
