AVERE strongly condemns delaying the decision to ban sales of internal combustion engine vehicles in Europe as of 2035.
To postpone this decision means to turn our backs on the commitment to the European Green Deal: it only proves we are straying off the path of decarbonisation and coming short of our responsibility to stave off the worst consequences of climate change. Furthermore, reopening the debate on a decision that all European institutions had already approved sets an extremely dangerous precedent for the credibility of those institutions and the functioning of the EU’s democratic processes.
9 March 2023
AVERE strongly condemns delaying the decision to ban sales of internal combustion engine vehicles in Europe as of 2035.
To postpone this decision means to turn our backs on the commitment to the European Green Deal: it only proves we are straying off the path of decarbonisation and coming short of our responsibility to stave off the worst consequences of climate change. Furthermore, reopening the debate on a decision that all European institutions had already approved sets an extremely dangerous precedent for the credibility of those institutions and the functioning of the EU’s democratic processes.
The discussion over technology neutrality entirely ignores that the electrification of transport is the most energy-efficient solution and the most convenient for consumers. Looking at the all-too-often mentioned e-fuels, multiple studies prove they are too expensive to be deployed at any meaningful scale in the road transport sector whilst being more urgently needed for industry, aviation and shipping. They also still produce harmful tailpipe pollutant emissions, directly jeopardising the health of European citizens
On the other hand, electric vehicles are an already proven alternative. The advantages of electrification have brought together all parts of society: The industry has been transitioning for a while, not for regulatory pressure but because manufacturers have recognised the global trend towards electrification and the dangers of being left behind. Many member states have supported this choice.
“It is surprising and disappointing to see the already agreed 2035 ICE phase-out, a crucial centrepiece on the EU’s road to climate neutrality, called into question based solely on party political considerations and electoral grandstanding at the national level. We call on all member states to stick to the commitment they agreed just months ago and to pass the reinforced car and van CO2 standards into law as soon as possible,” commented AVERE’s Secretary General Philippe Vangeel
“This week’s news makes us wonder why anyone in any member state still wants the risk of allowing dirty, polluting vehicles on Europe’s roads. If we accept it, will this hesitation in doing what is right also extend to other areas of decarbonisation?”
About AVERE
AVERE (The European Association for Electromobility) is the European association that promotes electromobility and sustainable transport across Europe.
Our Members consist of Companies, Research Institutions, and National Associations supporting and encouraging the use of Electric Vehicles and electromobility across Europe. We currently have more than 50 active members, including from some of the most successful EV countries like Norway, France, The Netherlands and Belgium.
Within these Associations, there are more than 2.600 industry members, ranging from SME’s, OEM’s, and other companies with a commercial interest in electromobility and more than 150.000+ EV users.
You can download the factsheet for the AVERE’s Vision for 2050 here