ELECTRIVE — 2025-10-22
News from Brussels
France and Spain have reaffirmed their commitment to the EU’s 2035 zero-emission target for new cars, rejecting calls from Germany, Italy and manufacturers to delay or dilute the phase-out of combustion engines. Both governments insist Europe’s automotive future must remain electric.
In a joint letter disclosed by French media, the two governments stated that the upcoming review of CO₂ standards must not undermine the 2035 zero-emission objective, which they describe as a central reference point for Europe’s industrial transition. France and Spain “hope that the upcoming review will preserve the 2035 cap and the environmental ambition of the CO2 emissions trajectory that underpins it,” a paper presented to climate ministers in Luxembourg.
Paris and Madrid argue that maintaining a clear regulatory trajectory is essential for the sector’s transformation, particularly for projects in battery production and vehicle electrification. Both countries emphasise that billions of euros have already been invested since 2023 to localise supply chains and secure European competitiveness in electric mobility. They contend that reversing course now would jeopardise industrial planning and investor confidence.
While France and Spain endorse limited “flexibilities” within the framework, these are intended to reinforce European value creation rather than weaken emissions targets. Proposed adjustments include the introduction of so-called super credits for small electric vehicles manufactured in Europe, designed to stimulate affordable EV production and expand market adoption.
“This flexibility would aim at enhancing the CO2 reduction associated with the production of these vehicles in Europe, compared to the more carbon-intensive reduction observed in third countries,” Bloomberg quotes the paper as saying. The two countries also oppose any continued preferential treatment for plug-in hybrid models after 2035, citing data showing significantly higher real-world emissions compared with laboratory figures.
The 2035 deadline was established as part of the EU Green Deal and represents a cornerstone of the bloc’s climate strategy. The policy, currently facing an industry-led campaign for revision, is due for reassessment in 2026. The European Commission has confirmed that the review process will begin before the end of 2025, but insists the overall target remains unchanged.
The positions of France and Spain contrast sharply with those of Germany and Italy, whose governments have urged the Commission to reconsider the regulation altogether. German manufacturers and suppliers have called for more time and broader technological openness, warning of competitiveness risks. Berlin has also linked its national EV incentives to a wider debate about industrial policy and consumer affordability.
EU environment ministers will discuss the issue as part of ongoing negotiations on the bloc’s climate and industrial frameworks this week. Despite political headwinds, the Commission is expected to maintain its course towards full decarbonisation of new vehicle sales. France and Spain view the 2035 target as indispensable for securing Europe’s role in the global transition to electric mobility, and as a signal that the continent’s automotive industry remains committed to a zero-emission future.