European prime ministers are asking the EU to allow the sale of hybrid cars and those with combustion engines even after 2035.

In 2022, the European Union decided that, starting from 2035, new cars sold will no longer be able to emit carbon dioxide (CO2), thus banning the registration of vehicles with internal combustion engines. In a letter addressed to the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, six prime ministers, including Giorgia Meloni and Donald Tusk, called for a review of EU rules to allow the sale of plug-in hybrid vehicles, with extended range and fuel cell vehicles after 2035.

They emphasize the importance of maintaining the competitiveness of the European automotive industry in the face of climate and economic challenges. Italy and Germany are also fighting to mitigate the ban, while automakers such as Stellantis, Volkswagen, and Renault are awaiting clarifications regarding the future of regulations. The European Commission will present a package of proposals on December 10, as part of the review of the EU regulation on carbon emissions for the automotive industry.