Industry Coalition Rallies Behind EU’s 2035 Zero-Emission Deadline
As political pressure mounts to reconsider the landmark 2035 ban on new internal combustion engine cars, a powerful coalition is emerging in its defense. Nearly 200 European companies and organizations have issued a direct appeal to the European Commission, urging it to maintain the regulatory course. This broad alliance, primarily from the electric mobility and renewable energy sectors, argues that regulatory certainty is paramount for continued investment and innovation.
A United Front for Electrification
The signatories, which include major players in charging infrastructure, clean energy, and parts of the automotive industry, present a counter-narrative to calls for flexibility from some traditional carmakers. They emphasize that the 2035 target is a critical driver for Europe’s industrial strategy, fostering technological leadership and creating future-proof jobs. The coalition warns that diluting the regulation would undermine investor confidence, stall the development of a comprehensive charging network, and ultimately harm European competitiveness in the global race for clean transport.
Certainty as a Catalyst for Investment
At the heart of their argument is the need for a stable and predictable regulatory framework. Large-scale investments in battery gigafactories, grid upgrades, and public charging points require long-term visibility. The group contends that the 2035 deadline provides this essential clarity, enabling the entire value chain to plan and execute the transition efficiently. They stress that backtracking or introducing loopholes for synthetic fuels would create market fragmentation and slow down the decarbonization of road transport.
The strong show of support from industry highlights a significant divide within the European economic landscape. While some seek to delay the inevitable shift, a growing and diverse industrial base is betting its future on electrification and is now publicly championing the policy that makes their investments viable. This intervention adds considerable weight to the political debate, framing the 2035 ban not just as an environmental imperative, but as a foundational pillar for Europe’s next industrial chapter.