This is not the first time that the subject has been on the table. And it seems that as long as it is not postponed, not to say withdrawn, certain States will not give up their fight: that of postponing the CO2 emissions limits imposed on car manufacturers in Europe from 2025.
So, this Thursday, November 28, seven member countries of the European Union have called for measures to preserve the competitiveness of the automobile industryeven though it must invest in innovation in order to comply with stricter polluting emissions limits. Italy, Poland, Austria, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Romania and Slovakia have united to demand a more pragmatic timetable, driven by economic realities, and not just ecological ones.
Sanctions that would hinder innovation
“The industry is currently at a critical juncture, facing significant challenges linked to production, employment and global competition, which require urgent and coordinated action at EU level” wrote the seven member states in a joint declaration. “Such sanctions would significantly limit the industry’s ability to reinvest in innovation and development, thereby harming Europe’s competitiveness on the global stage”.
Have manufacturers exaggerated CO2 fines?
As a reminder, from 2025, the EU will lower the ceiling on average CO2 emissions (the famous CAFE standard for Corporate Average Fuel Economy) sales of new vehicles at 81 g/km of CO2, compared to 95 g/km currently. Which amounts to selling one in four 100% electric cars. A ceiling which, if exceeded, could cost manufacturers very dearly: €95 per excess gram per km, multiplied by the number of vehicles sold. We remember Luca de Meo, boss of Renault but also of ACEA, who last September put forward an amount for the possible fine which could reach 15 billion euros.
And France’s position?
It is surprising that this joint declaration was not supported by France. However, we know that Paris’ position is close to that of the seven other countries regarding the CAFE standard implemented in Europe for 2025. Thus at the beginning of November, the new Minister of the Economy Antoine Armand stepped up to the plate, pleading for leniency. in the face of sanctions.
As for Germany, the largest European automobile producer, which is also not among the seven countries gathered on November 28, it also pleaded at the same time for a postponement of actions for 2026-2027. However, both France and Germany have recalled that the final objective of banning the sale of thermal vehicles in Europe in 2035, towards which these progressive sanctions should lead, must nevertheless be respected.
