PRESS RELEASE - 08.06.2022

The European Parliament voted today on proposed new targets to reduce CO2 emission from cars. The targets agreed would mean that no fossil-fuelled car can be sold as of 2035. This is a historic and crucial step to bring the climate and financial benefits of electric cars to Europeans.

Today’s vote is a milestone, as less than two years ago it would have seemed unthinkable to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars in 2035. If approved by EU Member States (see Next steps) this will pave the way for more affordable and cleaner mobility.  

Monique Goyens, BEUC Director General, commented:

“Electric driving benefits the climate and people’s wallets. The many people who buy their cars second-hand especially stand to make savings by going electric, as they for instance benefit from lower maintenance and running costs. Ambitious targets to reduce CO2 emissions stimulate the automotive industry to bring more electric cars to showrooms.”

Need to think about mobility beyond cars

A cleaner mobility system does not end at greening the automotive sector. Consumers need a choice of attractive and affordable options to get around cities, regions, countries, and across the borders between EU Member States.

“Helping consumers move to electric cars is part of the solution to the climate crisis, with emphasis on the words ‘part of’. The EU and its Member States should especially improve the ease of taking the train. Regions and cities should get all the support they need to improve walking and cycling infrastructure, and to develop public transport,” Monique Goyens added.

Next steps and more info

Parliament will now enter negotiations with the European Commission and EU Member States to make a final decision on these CO2 emission reductions. While BEUC had hoped for an interim reduction target in 2027, this is nevertheless a good result for drivers.

In addition to reducing CO2 emissions from cars, the EU is also taking action to make charging convenient. It is reviewing the existing ‘Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Directive’, a process that is expected to conclude after summer.

Do read also

• Electric cars: cheaper, more sustainable, and long-lasting – new BEUC research finds
• Electric cars already cheapest option today for many consumers, new study finds