14:41 27-08-2025

EU carmakers say the 2035 zero-emissions target is unrealistic

European carmakers say the EU’s CO2 targets, including a full zero-emissions goal for passenger cars by 2035, are out of reach. That message was delivered in a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen from Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius and Schaeffler Management Board Chairman Matthias Zink.

They point to dependence on Asian battery suppliers, a shortfall in charging infrastructure, and high manufacturing costs. Pressure is compounded by Chinese rivals in the electric-vehicle segment and higher U.S. import tariffs. Taken together, these headwinds make the current timeline look optimistic, highlighting a growing gap between policy ambition and what industry can realistically deliver.

On September 12, the European Commission will meet with automotive leaders to discuss the sector’s future. With global competition intensifying and costs climbing, companies are urging a rethink of the roadmap. For buyers, this also shapes the near-term choice of what to drive: electric models remain the priority, but affordability and cost structures are still under strain—suggesting the transition will continue, just not at the pace policymakers once imagined.