The strategic location of the Porsche and Ferrari automotive houses helped shape the stance of Italian and German authorities on the European Union’s plan to delay the final phase of the ban on selling new internal combustion engine cars until 2035. This stance emerged as a critical factor in the ongoing debate about how quickly Europe should move away from combustion technology.
Luxury sports car brands are pushing for an exemption or modification to the rules that would allow synthetic fuels, known as e-fuels, to be used in high performance models despite the EU’s roadmap. Observers point to the fact that in both Germany and Italy these brands are revered as national symbols, suggesting that their influence could sway policymakers toward a more flexible approach rather than a straightforward, across-the-board prohibition on combustion engines.
In early March, discussions around the ban gained momentum as Italy signaled resistance to the blanket restriction on the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles within Europe. The emphasis has been on balancing environmental goals with the realities of job creation, regional industry health, and economic stability as the transition unfolds.
Official statements from Italian authorities highlight a shared commitment to decarbonisation but stress the importance of an environmentally responsible path that also preserves employment and productivity. The message emphasizes a transition plan that remains economically sustainable and socially fair, aiming to avoid unintended consequences for the nation’s workforce while pursuing climate and air quality targets. This nuanced position reflects a broader European debate on how to implement ambitious climate policies without sacrificing regional competitiveness and social cohesion.