EU Eyes Third Rollback on Car Emissions as France Shifts Position

France and Germany have agreed to push for a weaker carbon target for new vehicles sold in the European Union, backing a proposal that would lower the emissions-cut requirement from 90 to 80 percent. The joint proposal is scheduled for review by EU governing bodies on October 15.

The move would mark the third loosening of climate rules for the European automotive sector in roughly two years. Six member states had previously opposed any revision, but France’s change of stance — reportedly linked to Germany backing a “Buy European” initiative — appears to have secured enough votes in the EU Council for the proposal to pass.

The retreat from the original 2035 combustion-engine ban has come in stages. In March 2025, automakers received a transition pause as interim benchmarks were cut. Within nine months, the reduction target was lowered from 100 to 90 percent, alongside the legalization of synthetic fuels. The current proposal would bring that figure to 80 percent.

Critics have highlighted the human cost of softening the rules. A commentator at Electrek cited 35,000 heat-related deaths across Europe as context and described the compromise as a concession to the auto industry lobby.

The shifting targets complicate investment planning for manufacturers developing electric vehicle platforms. Industry analysts expect some companies to defer spending on batteries and components, which could weigh on the long-term competitiveness of European production facilities. Chinese automakers, meanwhile, have continued expanding their presence in European markets through mass-produced models.

Source: Electrek