EU Approves Plan to Ban Sales of Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles from 2035

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] European Union (EU) countries have decided to ban the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles, including gasoline and diesel, starting from 2035.

On the 29th (local time), Bloomberg reported that the 27 EU member states have given final approval to the European Commission's plan to stop the sale of vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines from 2035.

This approval was made as part of a previous policy to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from new internal combustion engine vehicles by 100%. However, at the request of some member states including Germany and Italy, further review will be conducted on whether to allow the sale of vehicles using carbon-neutral fuels such as synthetic fuels.

Roberto Cingolani, Italy's Minister for Ecological Transition, expressed satisfaction and agreement with Germany's proposal to allow the use of carbon-neutral fuels after 2035.

Frans Timmermans, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, emphasized after the meeting, "I am confident that the European automotive industry can handle this," adding, "Companies are among Europe's industrial leaders and can maintain their status while embracing this global change."

Agnes Buzyn, French Minister of Health, explained, "Thanks to this agreement, Europe has taken a leading position in addressing climate issues and technology," and added, "It also ensures a just transition for each member state, each territory, and each citizen."