Europe reopens 2035 ICE debate — what it could signal for the UK

The European Commission has proposed easing its 2035 zero-emission target, allowing 90% of new cars to be zero-emission, with the remaining 10% made up of petrol, diesel or hybrid models. Carmakers could also earn credits for green steel, advanced biofuels and e-fuels, while small EU-built EVs may qualify for “super credits”.

At the same time, the Commission wants binding national targets to decarbonise corporate fleets from 2030, with Transport & Environment’s William Todts describing fleet electrification as “the low-hanging fruit” of industrial policy.

Critics warn the changes could result in up to 25% fewer battery electric vehicles sold in 2035, weakening investment certainty. Chris Heron of E-Mobility Europe said “changing the rules midway through the game undermines business confidence”.

For the UK, pressure is mounting. Britain plans all new cars to be electric or hybrid from 2030, with hybrids allowed until 2035. FleetCheck CEO Peter Golding warned EU moves would place “huge pressure” on the UK to align.

With the Conservatives pledging to scrap the ban and YouGov polling showing 58% of Britons now oppose a 2030 phase-out, debate around decarbonisation policy continues to intensify. Industry stakeholders such as Delvin Lane, CEO of InstaVolt, have warned of the risks associated with policy reversals, stating: “Policy certainty brings investment, not just in vehicles, but in charging infrastructure at scale.”

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