Europe’s automakers will not challenge the European Union’s decision to effectively ban fossil-fuel vehicles by 2035, regardless of the outcome of this year’s European parliamentary elections, announced Luca de Meo, president of the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), on Monday.
Addressing the press at the Geneva car show, de Meo, who is also the CEO of French carmaker Renault, emphasized the auto industry’s responsibility “as business leaders… is not to argue against the regulation.”
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“We are not contesting 2035,” de Meo stated. “Now we must get down to it.”
While de Meo acknowledged that a full fossil-fuel car ban in 2035 “is potentially feasible,” he stressed that the right conditions must be put in place to achieve this goal.
The automotive industry in Europe faces increasing pressure due to slowing demand growth for electric vehicles (EVs), compounded by the arrival of new Chinese rivals offering lower-cost models. In response, automakers are focusing on cost-cutting measures and the development of more affordable EV models.
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Automakers have consistently advocated for more government subsidies and the expansion of charging infrastructure to boost EV demand and facilitate mass adoption. These efforts are crucial for meeting the EU’s ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to cleaner transportation.