There are new developments regarding the European Union’s decision to allow the sale of only zero-emission vehicles from 2035. According to the German magazine Der Spiegel, there may be some flexibility to continue selling plug-in hybrids and range-extending electric vehicles in Europe. Details are in our news…

Will there be only zero-emission vehicles in 2035? A new hope for hybrids!

Negotiations are underway between the European Union and representatives of the automotive industry for a new support plan to be announced on March 5. The focus of the discussions is whether the decision to completely ban internal combustion engines in 2035 can be relaxed.

Huge pressure from the automotive sector!

Automotive manufacturers in Europe have long been pressing for the 2035 target to be postponed or relaxed. They are also demanding the abolition of penalties for manufacturers that fail to meet the new emission standards that will come into force in 2025. In previous statements, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the principle of technological neutrality and stated that e-fuels (synthetic fuels) and other alternative solutions could also be introduced.

In addition, the European Commission’s announcement that it will offer more investment flexibility to the sector when launching the strategic dialogue raises expectations that hybrid vehicles may avoid a total ban. Here are the possible scenarios after 2035…

Alternative scenarios for post-2035

Among the possible scenarios discussed in Brussels:

• Postponement of fines for producers exceeding CO2 emission limits
• Offsetting emission targets by lowering them to lower levels in the future
• Continued sale of plug-in hybrid vehicles after 2035 under certain conditions

However, Der Spiegel magazine is critical of this situation. They argue that relaxing the limits could keep electric vehicle prices high and make it harder for consumers to access affordable BEV (battery electric vehicle) options.

It is likely that the March announcements will include important decisions that will shape the automotive future in Europe. The future of hybrid and electric vehicles will depend on the outcome of these talks. So, do you think it’s the right decision to keep plug-in hybrids on sale beyond 2035? You can share your views in the comments section below…