EU Parliament Votes to End Sales of New Combustion Engine Vehicles

New legislation will phase out the sale of gasoline and diesel-powered cars and light commercial vehicles by 2035.

The measure is part of the EU's broader climate change goals.

The European Parliament has voted to end the sale of new gasoline and diesel-powered cars and light commercial vehicles by 2035. The legislation, which must still be approved by the European Council, is part of the EU's broader climate change goals. The bloc aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 and reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

The decision has been met with mixed reactions. Environmental groups have hailed it as a major step forward in the fight against climate change, while automakers have expressed concern about the potential impact on the industry. Some have argued that the transition to electric vehicles will lead to job losses and higher prices for consumers.

The EU Parliament has acknowledged these concerns and has included provisions in the legislation to mitigate them. For example, the legislation includes a derogation for small automakers, those that produce fewer than 10,000 vehicles per year. These manufacturers will be allowed to continue selling gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles until 2036.

The legislation also includes provisions to support the transition to electric vehicles. The EU will invest in charging infrastructure and provide incentives to consumers to purchase electric vehicles. The bloc is also working to develop new technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cells, that could provide a zero-emissions alternative to gasoline and diesel.

The decision by the EU Parliament is a significant step towards a zero-emissions future. The legislation will help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and create new jobs in the clean energy sector.