EU lawmakers vote to soften the combustion engine ban

What happened

The environment committee of the European Parliament backed changing EU climate rules. Under the change, car companies could keep selling new petrol, diesel and hybrid cars after 2035. The committee vote was 48 in favour, 30 against and 2 abstentions. The full Parliament is expected to vote in December. The 27 EU countries are also working on their own shared position. No change takes effect unless both the countries and Parliament agree.

The current rule

Right now, new cars sold in the EU must produce no carbon dioxide (CO2) when driving from 2035. Carmakers that break this rule face fines. The EU wants to become climate-neutral, which means it only releases as much CO2 as can be taken back out of the air. In December, the European Commission proposed a softer rule. Under it, carmakers would only need to cut their average emissions by 90 percent. The remaining 10 percent could be offset with CO2-neutral fuels or green steel.

Key numbers

• Committee vote: 48 for, 30 against, 2 abstentions
• Committee plan: cut average new-car CO2 by 87.5% by 2035, compared with 2021
• Default target: cut emissions by 95%, with an extra 7.5 points allowed if carmakers use climate-friendly steel
• Germany and France's joint plan: cut emissions by 90% from 2035, with no offsets needed

Why it matters

This is a big change for the car industry in Europe. Supporters say it protects technology choices and helps the car supply chain. Critics, such as Green MEP Michael Bloss, warn that constant policy changes scare off investment. They also warn of job losses because of competition from China. The final decision will affect how fast Europe moves to electric cars.

What to watch

• The full European Parliament vote, expected in December
• Whether the 27 EU countries agree on their own position
• Final talks between countries and Parliament to agree one rule
• How carmakers and car prices respond to the rule