Stockholm (Business Emerge Special Report): Europe’s electric mobility organizations have urged the European Commission to maintain its target requiring all new passenger vehicles sold from 2035 to produce zero tailpipe emissions. The appeal comes ahead of a policy announcement expected later this month, with industry groups cautioning that altering the framework may influence ongoing manufacturing and investment strategies across the region.
The concerns were raised ahead of the Commission’s scheduled presentation of a new automotive regulatory package on December 16. The update is expected to address compliance pathways for vehicle emissions and could introduce additional flexibility. Several established manufacturers have sought adjustments within the current roadmap, particularly around the future role of combustion-engine technologies.
E-Mobility Europe and ChargeUp Europe, supported by nearly 200 companies and organisations across the sector, submitted a joint letter to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The groups conveyed that current discussions in policy circles may lead to modifications in the upcoming framework, prompting unease among firms that have aligned long-term operations with the 2035 milestone.
The joint communication noted that expanding allowances for transitional technologies, including plug-in hybrid systems or fuels classified as CO₂-neutral, may lead to uncertainty in production planning. Signatories highlighted that a shift away from the present objective could influence the timeline for Europe’s move toward full electrification, at a time when the global market is experiencing rapid cost reductions and scale advantages in other regions.
Industry representatives stated that adjustments to existing commitments could shape the long-term trajectory of Europe’s EV market. Over recent years, manufacturers have invested heavily in supply chains, battery capacity and infrastructure that anticipate a steady phase-out of combustion technologies. Any policy change, they said, may alter expected demand forecasts or financing plans tied to the transition.
Analysts observe that the next regulatory package will be closely followed by automakers, suppliers and charging-network operators. The final framework is also expected to influence market competitiveness within the bloc as companies prepare for increasing global competition, particularly from high-volume EV producers expanding into European markets.
Stakeholders anticipate that the December 16 announcement will clarify whether the EU will maintain its current trajectory or introduce adjustments. Industry groups expect continued discussions over the coming months as regulators review implementation challenges, investment conditions and the alignment of transport policies with broader climate objectives.
