EU Commission rebuffs car industry calls to delay CO2 targets

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Euractiv or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The European Commission rejected calls from automakers to delay the 2025 CO2 reduction targets, arguing the sector has had ample time to prepare
• Under the current rules, automakers must reduce average CO2 emissions by 15% from 2021 levels by next year, but some industry players, led by Renault, seek a two-year postponement due to slow electric vehicle (EV) sales
• The Commission insists that the 2025 target is crucial for climate goals

🔭 The context: The auto industry fears penalties of up to €16 billion if CO2 targets are missed, with EV sales lagging at 15%, below the needed 20-22%
• While carmakers cite issues like charging infrastructure and high costs, environmental groups argue automakers have had years to prepare and are trying to avoid responsibility

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Achieving the 2025 CO2 targets is critical for reducing emissions in the transport sector, one of the largest sources of pollution in the EU
• Delaying these targets could hinder the EU’s climate goals and slow down the transition to electric vehicles

⏭️ What's next: Automakers, led by Renault, will discuss the proposal to delay CO2 targets at an ACEA meeting
• However, the Commission remains firm, and some suggest allowing carmakers to reduce fines by overachieving in future years

💬 One quote: “This is not a war or a pandemic, but a self-serving stunt,” said Julia Poliscanova from Transport & Environment, criticizing the automakers' push for delay

📈 One stat: Automakers risk fines of up to €16 billion if they fail to meet the 2025 CO2 reduction targets

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