European Carmakers Warn EU 2030–35 CO2 Goals No Longer Feasible

European carmakers and automotive suppliers have warned that the EU's strict CO2 emissions targets for 2030 and 2035, which effectively ban combustion engine vehicles, are no longer feasible under current conditions. Leaders from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association and the European Association of Automotive Suppliers cited challenges including dependency on Asian battery supplies, high electricity costs, and US tariffs as significant barriers. They urged the European Commission to adopt a more technology-neutral approach, recognizing alternatives such as plug-in hybrids, hydrogen, and low-carbon fuels. The industry is calling for stronger demand-side incentives, like reduced charging costs and purchase subsidies, to support the transition. Despite these challenges, the industry remains committed to the EU's 2050 net-zero goal but insists that penalties and mandates alone will not drive the transformation. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is set to meet automotive executives to discuss these issues amid growing competition from China and trade tensions with the US.