EU delays new ban on sales of gasoline cars

The European Union has announced a softer stance on the previously planned 2035 ban for selling new gasoline and diesel vehicles. The European Commission’s move aims to give automakers extra time to adjust due to financial strains and sluggish car sales across the continent. Intense lobbying from countries like Germany and Italy led to this decision, while nations such as Spain and the Netherlands advocated sticking with the original timeline.

Industry experts argue that extending the deadline may not solve the underlying problems facing the auto sector. Rising inflation, U.S. import tariffs, and growing competition from Chinese electric car manufacturers have created significant cost pressures. Although some brands such as Ford and Mercedes-Benz initially supported the 2035 goal, they later scaled back their efforts, citing challenges in ramping up electric vehicle production and supply chains that still heavily depend on China for critical components like batteries.

Meanwhile, the delays have sparked concerns among environmental groups and early electric car leaders such as Volvo, who warn that rolling back the restrictions could stall progress on climate goals and deepen the divide between EU countries. While some nations, like the Netherlands, already see high adoption rates of electric vehicles, others, particularly in Eastern Europe, continue to lag behind, with limited charging infrastructure and slower uptake. The European Commission’s latest decision is seen as part of a broader trend of easing sustainability policies in the face of a difficult economic transition.