Italy’s Prime Minister Slams EU’s 2035 Ban on Fossil Fuel Cars

Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, has criticized the EU’s ban on the sale of new fossil fuel-powered car engines after 2035, calling it a “self-destructive” policy. In her address to the Italian industrial association Confindustria,

Meloni argued that the “forced conversion” to electric vehicles (EVs) could lead to significant job losses and the dismantling of entire industrial segments.

Her criticism comes as Italy, Germany, and other European countries push for an early review of the EU’s car emission rules, which effectively ban new combustion engines by 2035, reports The Financial Times.

Meloni’s Critique of the EU’s Green Deal

Meloni’s primary concern is the potential impact on jobs and the economy.

She stated, “The green transition cannot mean destroying thousands of jobs, or dismantling entire industrial segments that produce wealth and employment.”

She believes the EU’s Green Deal has “disastrous effects” due to its “ideological approach.” Her stance reflects a growing sentiment among some European countries that the EU’s climate policies are too rigid and could harm their economies.

Industry and Government Pushback

Germany’s transport minister, Volker Wissing, echoed similar concerns, stating that Europe is “losing credibility” by setting unrealistic targets. The rules, adopted in 2023, have been a point of contention, with carmakers and governments of car-producing nations calling for more flexibility.

Italy, in particular, is pushing for an early review of the legislation, citing a crisis in its car industry with production down by 35.5% compared to last year.

Stellantis and the Fiat 500

Stellantis, the largest automaker in Italy and owner of the Fiat brand, recently announced a four-week suspension of production of electric Fiat 500s due to weak demand. This move highlights the challenges faced by the industry in transitioning to EVs.

Meloni argued that the EU should have allowed each member state to define their own tactics for cutting CO2 emissions rather than prescribing a wholesale switch to EVs.

The EU’s Response

Teresa Ribera, the EU’s presumptive new executive vice-president overseeing green policy, defended the phaseout date for combustion engines, stating that it provides the “stability and reliability” needed to build up the EV ecosystem.

The car industry body ACEA reported that EU car sales climbed in 2023, with battery-electric models nearly tripling their market share.

EVXL’s Take

The debate over the EU’s ban on fossil fuel cars highlights the complexities of the transition to electric vehicles. While the shift to EVs is crucial for reducing emissions, it’s essential to consider the economic and job impacts. As seen in recent articles on Tesla’s innovations, the EV industry is rapidly evolving, and policies must adapt to support this growth while minimizing disruption.

The bigger picture shows that the future is electric, and finding a balance between environmental goals and economic stability is key.

What are your thoughts on this article? Leave your comments below.

Photos courtesy of Fiat / Stellantis.