Strasbourg: Around three years ago, negotiators from the European Union and the European Parliament agreed that all new cars sold after 2035 would have to produce zero carbon emissions. That plan is now set for a major rethink.

Under the Commission’s new proposal, the strict target of a 100 per cent emissions reduction would be dropped. Instead, carmakers would be required to cut carbon dioxide emissions by up to 90 per cent compared to 2021 levels, with specific exceptions built into the framework.

These exceptions would apply to all vehicle manufacturers who intend to sell after 2035, provided emissions are offset through measures such as the use of environmentally friendly steel and more climate-friendly fuels.

The proposal places strong emphasis on offsetting emissions through biofuels and e-fuels. Biofuels are already blended into petrol sold across Europe, including E10 gasoline. Officials say increasing the blending ratio, especially with biofuels derived from organic waste, could significantly reduce emissions from existing transport systems.

However, the Commission clarified that cars running exclusively on environmentally friendly synthetic fuels will not receive special exemptions under future emissions rules.

The proposed changes will now be reviewed by the European Parliament and EU member states, both of which can introduce amendments.