France and Germany support relaxing EU rules on automotive emissions

France and Germany have backed easing European Union rules on vehicle emissions as part of an agreement to support the automotive industry, concluded on Thursday. The agreement also includes the United Kingdom in the definition of vehicles considered “made in Europe,” according to a draft document and diplomatic sources cited by AFP.

The agreement removes the requirement for manufacturers to offset residual emissions, after the European Commission had proposed a 90% reduction in tailpipe emissions from new vehicles starting in 2035. The remaining 10% would have been offset through credits obtained, among other means, by using low-carbon steel.

The new agreement paves the way for vehicles powered by renewable fuels to be classified as “zero-emission” vehicles and allows manufacturers to meet CO₂ emissions targets more easily. In addition, “super-credits” initially intended for small, affordable electric cars are expected to be extended to all vehicles, regardless of size or length.