Even though the planet continues to grapple with the threat of climate change, the European Union (EU) has taken a bold step toward achieving carbon neutrality. In 2021, the European Commission proposed a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2035 onwards, a decision that drew mixed reactions from stakeholders, with some welcoming it as a significant move towards reducing carbon emissions and others remaining skeptical about its feasibility. Next, we will delve into the impact of the EU’s decision to allow electric vehicles only from 2035 onwards.
First, let’s look at the rationale behind this decision. The primary objective of the ban is to reduce carbon emissions and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Recent studies show that cars are responsible for around 15% of the EU’s total CO2 emissions. This percentage is expected to increase unless significant measures are taken. The ban on new petrol and diesel cars aims to reduce emissions by 55% by 2030 and ultimately achieve a net zero emission level by 2050. The EU’s decision also aligns with other countries, while some, such as Germany, have proposed an exemption for e-fuel cars.
The impact of this decision on the automotive industry is enormous. Electric cars currently account for around 10% of new car sales in the EU. However, this figure is set to increase significantly after the ban. Car manufacturers will have to adapt to the new reality and invest more in electric cars to keep up with the changing market requirements. This transition, however, does not come without challenges. Producing electric cars is expensive, and the production process requires significant investment in technology, including battery production.
Another challenge for the transition to electric cars is the current infrastructure gap. Electric cars require charging stations, which are not yet widely available in all parts of the EU. However, the European Commission has introduced measures to facilitate investment in developing high-speed charging infrastructure. Still, achieving a comprehensive charging network across the EU will take time.
Beyond the challenges, though, the ban on petrol and diesel cars will undoubtedly have a positive impact on air quality. Combustion engine cars emit harmful pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, which pose significant health risks. The switch to electric cars will significantly reduce air pollution in cities, improving public health and reducing pressure on health budgets. Although, considering that Germany has succeeded in reaching an agreement for the continuation of selling carbon-neutral e-fueled vehicles, it remains to be seen whether and to what extent this impact will be affected.
Ultimately, the EU’s decision to allow only electric vehicles from 2035 onwards, even with the exemption agreed for electric fuel cars, is an essential move towards reducing carbon emissions and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Although the decision poses significant challenges, it provides an opportunity to improve overall air quality. The transition to electric cars will require significant investment in technology and charging infrastructure, and industry players will need to adapt to changing market demands. This decision is a call to action for other countries and industries to take bold steps to reduce carbon emissions and join the battle against climate change.
