The European Commission might delay the unveiling of its announced relief package for the automotive sector, which among other things might include changes to the 2035 prohibition on new internal combustion engine vehicles. Originally, an announcement was expected by December 10, but the schedule is now unclear, and new internal dates are being looked at.
Announcement Timing Unclear
The Commission had been expected to release the package by mid-December. However, an industry source said December 16 is now being discussed as a potential target. This date remains tentative and could still move. A spokesperson for the Commission declined to confirm the change.
Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas noted this week that the proposals might not be ready until early January. He said the Commission was still working through the contents of the package.
“We are still working on it. We want to present an automotive package that is truly comprehensive and covers all the necessary aspects,” he said.
Focus on Sector Stability During Transition
The upcoming package is being developed to support Europe’s automotive industry during its transition to cleaner technologies. The current policy includes a 2035 deadline to end sales of new cars with combustion engines, a target that has drawn concerns from manufacturers and some governments.
The Commission is working to address requests for a more gradual shift. The final version of the package has not been made public, but it is expected to include options for supporting the sector’s adaptation, including new technologies and funding tools.
Tzitzikostas stated that the Commission is “working very hard” to present the full set of proposals before the end of the year, but he did not guarantee the timeline.
Germany Seeks Flexibility on 2035 Target
Germany has been active in calling for changes to the current 2035 plan. It has requested that plug-in hybrids and newer combustion engines with higher efficiency be allowed beyond the original deadline.
Tzitzikostas acknowledged the request, stating, “We are open to all technologies.” He confirmed that a letter from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, which outlined these proposals, had been received and reviewed.
“The letter was very positively received,” he added, without offering further details.
Broader Measures Under Discussion
Besides the engine phase-out policy, the package is likely to address other important matters like backing for battery development, financial support for innovation, and worker transition.
The intention seems to be a compromise that upholds the environmental objectives but gives more leeway in the methods of achieving them. The date of the final announcement is still not clear.
