Italy leads seven countries backing auto sector call to delay tougher emissions limits

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🗞️ Driving the news: Seven EU countries, led by Italy and Poland, have called for delaying stricter CO2 emissions standards for cars, set to take effect by the end of 2025
• The coalition argues that the automotive industry faces existential challenges, including global competition and declining electric vehicle (EV) sales, risking multi-billion-euro fines

🔭 The context: EU emissions limits for cars are set to drop from 115.1g/km to 93.6g/km in 2025, with a path to zero emissions by 2030
• Carmakers claim they face compliance difficulties due to high EV costs and slow adoption, while the European Commission insists they've had sufficient time to adapt
• Germany, France, and Spain notably did not support the proposal

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Delaying emissions standards could undermine efforts to decarbonize the automotive sector, a critical component of Europe’s climate goals
• Critics argue that prioritizing hybrid and combustion engine models over affordable EVs stalls progress toward a sustainable transport future.

⏭️ What's next: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen plans to initiate a “strategic dialogue” on the car industry's future, aiming for balanced solutions as the sector transitions to low-carbon technologies
• Ministers at an EU Council summit will also discuss competitiveness strategies for the automotive industry

💬 One quote: “If policymakers stay firm, European consumers will benefit from excellent affordable offerings next year, uplifting the EU electric car market to new highs,” - Julia Poliscanova of Transport & Environment

📈 One stat: EU emissions limits are set to drop to 93.6g/km in 2025, from the current 115.1g/km, with a long-term target of zero by 2030

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