EU Commission President von der Leyen emphasizes continuity, affirming that Europe's automotive future will be powered by electricity
The automotive industry in Europe is at a pivotal moment, with the focus squarely on electric mobility. The European Commission remains firm on its 2035 zero-emission mandate, aiming to reduce air pollution and prevent premature deaths, while car manufacturers are engaging in discussions about the regulations and potential changes.
At a recent Brussels summit, BMW, Renault, Volkswagen, Stellantis, Mercedes, and others publicly debated EU CO2 regulations. Reports suggest that the industry is seeking a review of current rules and the possible introduction of a new regulatory category for small electric vehicles.
Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius has argued for more flexibility, calling for room for hybrids, range extenders, hydrogen, and synthetic fuels. However, the Commission is resisting pressure from lagging carmakers and offering incentives for small EVs instead. BMW's chief, Oliver Zipse, has branded the 2035 ban a 'big mistake' and warned against overreliance on battery technology.
On the other hand, Volvo Cars has backed the regulation from the start, with CEO Håkan Samuelsson insisting there is 'no turning back' from full electrification. Audi CEO Gernot Döllner has warned that reopening the debate on the 2035 mandate is 'counterproductive' and diverts resources away from scaling up EV production.
The number of public charging points in Europe has surpassed one million, but access is still uneven across the continent, with rural areas lagging behind urban hubs. To address this issue, the EU must expand its own battery production capacity to reduce reliance on imports and uphold environmental and human rights standards.
Two working groups will be established to discuss technologies and fuels that could realistically contribute to the 2035 target and incentives for small EVs. The outcome of the summit provides certainty for carmakers investing in electric mobility and increases pressure on laggards to catch up.
Polestar chief Michael Lohscheller has pressed Brussels not to water down the targets, calling them essential for innovation and Europe's credibility as a global leader. The EU's 2035 zero-emission mandate could prevent tens of thousands of premature deaths in the future due to air pollution reduction.
As Europe's automotive future becomes increasingly electric, the race is on for car manufacturers to adapt and innovate. The article is based on reporting from the European Commission, Electrive, Euronews, FAZ, and insights from the ICCT Transition Check Report 2025. The Commission remains determined to hold its line, resisting pressure from carmakers and offering incentives for a fair and achievable transition.
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