Italy Leads EU Coalition Urging Delay of Stricter Car Emissions Standards

Seven EU Nations Request Urgent Review of CO2 Emission Rules
Italy, along with Poland, Austria, Romania, Slovakia, Bulgaria, and Czechia, has joined forces in advocating for a delay to the planned tightening of CO2 emissions standards for cars. These governments argue that the automotive industry is facing significant challenges due to production delays, a shortage of key components, and global competition. They contend that stricter emissions standards, set to take effect in 2024, would further strain the sector, particularly as carmakers continue to adjust to the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). In a joint proposal, they call for an expedited review of the rules ahead of the December 2025 compliance deadline to safeguard the industry’s competitiveness.

Concerns Over Compliance Costs and Fines
The group of seven EU nations is also raising concerns over the potential economic impact of the upcoming emissions standards. The stricter regulations will reduce the legal CO2 emissions limit for new cars from 115.1 grams per kilometer to 93.6 grams per kilometer. The car industry, especially manufacturers with limited EV production, is at risk of incurring substantial fines for not meeting these targets. The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has warned that such penalties could hinder carmakers’ ability to reinvest in innovation and green technology development, which is vital for the sector’s future. The governments argue that a delay in enforcement would give carmakers more time to adjust to the evolving market and regulatory landscape.

EU Commission Sticks to Emission Deadlines Amid Industry Pressure
Despite calls for a delay, the European Commission has expressed firm resistance. Officials argue that carmakers have had sufficient time to prepare for the stricter rules and that the new emissions standards are necessary to drive the EU’s green transition. The European Commission has noted that the sector has had years to adapt to the gradual tightening of regulations, and they should now comply as scheduled. The Commission’s stance reflects a broader commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2035, a goal that aligns with Europe’s broader climate policies. Notably, Germany, France, and Spain—Europe’s largest car manufacturers—have not supported the push for a delay, indicating that some of the continent’s biggest automotive players are prepared to meet the tighter standards.

Shift to EVs and the Debate Over Technological Neutrality
A central point of debate within the proposal for a delay is the issue of technological neutrality. While carmakers seek more flexibility in meeting emissions standards, some suggest that the EU should allow a continued market for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles as long as they run on low-carbon synthetic fuels. This proposal is backed by the ACEA, which argues that allowing synthetic fuels could provide a bridge for ICE vehicles while maintaining the focus on reducing overall emissions. However, environmental groups, including Transport & Environment, oppose this approach, claiming that synthetic fuels are more costly and could undermine Europe’s progress in the EV market. They argue that the focus should remain on accelerating the transition to electric vehicles, which they believe is the most effective path to achieving the EU’s climate goals.

EU Leadership Focuses on Long-Term Automotive Transition
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also weighed in on the discussion, announcing a strategic dialogue on the future of the European car industry. This dialogue will involve all stakeholders and aim to address the challenges facing the sector as it navigates the shift towards green technologies. Von der Leyen emphasized that this transition is essential for Europe’s future competitiveness in the global automotive market, noting that the European Commission would continue to support the industry’s transformation, despite the pressures it faces in the short term.