European Union energy ministers on Tuesday finally approved a law banning the sale of new cars with CO2 emissions in the EU by 2035. This move is highlighted by Reuters as a decisive step toward tougher climate action in Europe.
The plan sets a firm emissions trajectory for automakers. By 2030, manufacturers must cut emissions from new passenger car models by 55% and from light commercial vehicles by 50% compared with 2021 levels. In addition, from 2025 to 2029, the share of low-emission vehicles in total sales is planned to rise to 25% for passenger cars and 17% for light commercial vehicles. By 2035, the target is a complete 100% reduction in carbon emissions for new cars sold in the bloc.
Consequently, by 2035 European automakers will have to halt production of vehicles powered by conventional internal combustion engines (ICE). The ban on ICE vehicles is a central element of the European Commission’s broader strategy to reach a climate-neutral economy by 2050.
In related industry news, Consumer Reports has published a list highlighting the most reliable used crossovers among three-year-old models. The study identifies several durable options, including the Ford Edge, Honda Passport, Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda Pilot, Acura MDX, Kia Telluride, Mazda CX-9, and Toyota Highlander, as standout choices in that age bracket. [Citation: Consumer Reports] These findings offer a useful counterpoint for buyers weighing reliability alongside efficiency and emissions considerations when shopping used vehicles. [Citation: Consumer Reports]