Italy Urges EU to Rethink 2035 Combustion Engine Ban As Automotive Industry Struggles | Auto News

Italy is calling for a review of the European Union’s 2035 ban on new internal combustion engine sales, citing economic concerns. Energy Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin labelled the ban “absurd,” driven by ideological motives, and ill-suited to the current market realities.

Italy Urges EU to Rethink 2035 Combustion Engine Ban As Automotive Industry Struggles | Image Credit: Pexels

Key Highlights

• Italy demands an early review of the EU’s 2035 combustion engine ban, calling it “absurd” and economically unrealistic.
• Industry leaders like Renault and Volkswagen warn of significant financial risks due to slowing EV sales.
• Italy seeks a balanced approach, combining electric vehicle growth with traditional propulsion methods to safeguard industry jobs.

New Delhi: The Italian government has pressed the EU to rethink its decision to prohibit new internal combustion engine vehicles by 2035. At the Ambrosetti Forum, held in Cernobbio, Italy, Energy Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin criticised the EU’s decision, labelling it “absurd” and driven by an ideological stance rather than practical market realities. He argued that the policy fails to account for the economic challenges currently facing the European automotive industry.

Industry Minister Adolfo Urso also joined the call for change, urging the European Commission to bring forward a review of the plan to 2025, rather than waiting until 2026. Urso pointed to the slowdown in the German automotive sector, emphasising that clearer policies are essential to prevent further decline. He stressed that Europe must adopt a more pragmatic, balanced approach to automotive propulsion systems, rather than focusing solely on electric vehicles (EVs).

Italy’s stance reflects broader concerns about the European auto industry. Stellantis, a major player in Italy, has reported declining sales, and Volkswagen is reportedly considering factory closures in Germany. Meanwhile, Renault’s CEO, Luca de Meo, warned that European carmakers could face up to €15 billion in fines if they fail to meet the EU’s ambitious climate targets amid declining EV sales.

While Italy is not opposed to the development of electric vehicles, the government advocates for a diversified approach that includes traditional combustion engines. This approach, they argue, is crucial for safeguarding jobs and the long-term viability of the European car industry in an uncertain economic environment.

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