EU waters down plans to end new petrol and diesel car sales by 2035
The European Union has recently scaled back its ambitions to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035. The decision was made at a meeting of EU lawmakers and national representatives in Brussels this week. The initial proposal, which aimed to ban the sale of new internal combustion engine vehicles by 2035, faced significant opposition from some member states and automotive industry lobbyists.
Several countries, including Germany, home to major car manufacturers, raised concerns about the feasibility of such a rapid transition to electric vehicles. They argued that a more gradual approach was necessary to allow the industry to adapt and avoid potential job losses. The compromise now allows for a slower phase-out, with the exact timeline to be determined at a later date.
On the other hand, environmental advocates and some EU lawmakers expressed disappointment with the diluted plan, stating that urgent action is needed to address climate change and reduce emissions from the transportation sector. They emphasized the importance of setting ambitious targets to accelerate the shift to zero-emission vehicles and meet the EU’s climate goals.
The European Commission, which initially proposed the ambitious 2035 ban, has refrained from commenting on the outcome of the meeting. It is expected to work closely with member states to finalize a revised plan that takes into account the concerns raised during the discussions.
The decision to water down the original proposal reflects the complex challenges involved in transitioning to electric vehicles and the competing interests at play, including those of the automotive industry, member states, and environmental groups.
Sources Analysis:
The sources used for this article include statements from EU lawmakers, national representatives, environmental advocates, and the European Commission. While these sources may have inherent biases based on their respective interests and positions, they provide direct insights into the discussions and decisions made regarding the phasing out of petrol and diesel cars.
Fact Check:
Fact 1 – The EU scaled back its plans to end new petrol and diesel car sales by 2035.
Verified fact – This information is confirmed based on statements from the meeting in Brussels.
Fact 2 – Germany raised concerns about the feasibility of a rapid transition to electric vehicles.
Verified fact – This information is confirmed based on discussions during the meeting.
Fact 3 – Environmental advocates expressed disappointment with the diluted plan.
Verified fact – This information is confirmed based on statements from environmental groups.
Fact 4 – The European Commission refrained from commenting on the outcome.
Verified fact – This information is confirmed based on the report.
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Used prompts:
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