The European Union is moving forward with a sustained plan to cut carbon dioxide emissions from new cars to zero by 2035, a decision that reflects the bloc’s commitment to cleaner transportation. The information comes from statements released by the EU press service and cited by TASS, highlighting the council’s stance and the Commission’s broader climate ambitions.
In a formal decision, the Council agreed to raise ambition for reducing CO2 from new passenger cars by 2030 to 55 percent, and to tighten truck targets to a 50 percent reduction in the same period. The plan also sets a bold trajectory for 2035, aiming for a complete elimination of carbon emissions from new vehicles. These steps form a critical part of the EU’s strategy to decarbonize road transport and stimulate a shift toward zero-emission technologies.
With the 2035 target, European automakers face a clear deadline to phase out conventional internal combustion engines in favor of electric powertrains and other low-emission technologies. The policy signal aligns with broader European objectives to reduce fossil fuel dependence, improve air quality, and support sustainable mobility across member states. Industry observers note that the transition will require substantial investment in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and supply chains to meet demand for electric vehicles at scale.
The move to require 100 percent emission reductions for new cars by 2035 is positioned within the Commission’s climate-neutral economy framework, a long-term plan aimed at balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. The decision underscores the EU’s intent to lead global efforts in mitigating climate change through practical, enforceable standards for the automotive sector and related industries.
Some observers have raised concerns about affordability and accessibility, as vehicle prices have risen and consumer budgets tighten. Advocacy groups emphasize the importance of ensuring supportive policies, such as subsidies, incentives for manufacturing in the EU, and programs to expand charging networks, so that households across the Union can participate in the transition. The Council’s resolution recognizes these considerations, signaling a multi-faceted approach that combines regulatory targets with measures to ease the shift for buyers and manufacturers alike.
Industry analysis suggests that the road to 2035 will involve a combination of stricter emissions rules, continued improvements in battery technology, and collaboration across the public and private sectors. Policymakers anticipate that accelerating research and development will yield cost reductions over time, helping to broaden the appeal of electric vehicles beyond early adopters. At the same time, the plan calls for ongoing evaluation and adjustment to ensure that targets remain realistic while driving meaningful environmental benefits for citizens in Canada and the United States as nearby markets observe the EU’s approach and its results with interest and potential replication in similar policy contexts. This alignment reflects a broader global trend toward decarbonizing transportation and promoting sustainable mobility solutions. The marked commitment by the EU stands as a clear signal to manufacturers and investors about where the market is headed and what is expected in terms of innovation and deployment of zero-emission technology, charging infrastructure, and related services. The framework is designed to support a smooth transition that preserves competitiveness and jobs while delivering tangible climate advantages for current and future generations. The initiative, now formalized by EU institutions, continues to unfold as member states implement national measures to meet the 2030 and 2035 milestones, contributing to a cleaner, healthier, and more connected Europe and offering a benchmark for other regions pursuing aggressive climate action, including North American economies that monitor the policy developments and their potential applicability in their own contexts. For those tracking policy progress, official statements and subsequent analyses from EU bodies provide ongoing guidance on how the 2030 and 2035 targets will translate into real-world changes for car manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers alike. Source: European Commission press service with attribution to EU Council communications.