More than 150 executives from Europe’s electric vehicle (EV) industry, including leaders from Volvo Cars, Polestar, and charging network operator Fastned, have called on the European Union to maintain its 2035 zero-emission target for cars and vans.
In a joint letter released on Monday, the signatories warned that delaying the ban on combustion engines would slow Europe’s EV transition, give global competitors — especially from China and the U.S. — a strategic advantage, and undermine investor confidence, Reuters news report said.
Industry Pushback Against Calls for Delay
The appeal comes shortly after another letter, signed by leaders from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) and automotive suppliers, argued that a 100 percent emissions reduction by 2035 was no longer feasible. Among its backers was Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kaellenius, signaling a division within the auto sector.
On September 12, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet industry leaders to discuss the future of the automotive market, which is already under pressure from Chinese EV rivals and potential U.S. tariffs.
Why the 2035 Target Matters
Michael Lohscheller, CEO of Polestar, stressed that weakening the targets would “harm both the climate and Europe’s ability to compete.”
Michiel Langzaal, CEO of Fastned, highlighted that billions in charging infrastructure and software investments were made with the certainty of the 2035 deadline. “Those investments can only create returns if we get to this goal,” he said.
Compliance Outlook
According to a report from Transport & Environment (T&E), nearly all European automakers are on track to meet CO₂ regulations between 2025 and 2027 — with the exception of Mercedes-Benz, which may need to pool its emissions with Volvo and Polestar to avoid potential fines.
The Bigger Picture
The outcome of this debate will determine not only Europe’s climate strategy but also its ability to remain competitive in the rapidly growing global EV market. With pressure from both industry stakeholders and policymakers, the EU’s stance on the 2035 zero-emission goal will send a clear signal to investors, consumers, and rivals worldwide.
GreentechLead.com News Desk