EU carmakers seek ban rethink as EV sales lag, targets cut

• European carmakers are urging Brussels to reconsider the 2035 ban on new combustion-engine cars due to slower-than-expected EV transition.
• The European Commission is preparing an auto sector package, with some suggesting the 2035 ban might be scrapped.
• While battery-electric vehicle (BEV) registrations are rising, they haven't offset the sharper decline in petrol and diesel car sales, leading to overall weakened car sales.
• Major automakers like Volkswagen, Stellantis, and Mercedes-Benz have low BEV shares and are revising their ambitious EV sales targets.
• Carmakers are advocating for the acceptance of CO2-neutral fuels, plug-in hybrids, and range extenders, and for incentives to boost EV demand instead of fixed phase-out dates.

Why It Matters: Future car choices and climate goals are at stake as EU rethinks EV transition.