The Czech Republic and Italy will join forces at a European Council summit this week to call for a delay in imposing fines on European carmakers unable to meet emissions targets next year, according to Euractiv.
Czech Transport Minister Martin Kupka unveiled the plan on Sunday, expressing concern that a recent drop in demand for electric vehicles in the EU would make it increasingly difficult for carmakers to meet the required 15 per cent emissions reduction by 2025.
They can’t meet the target because interest in electric cars has fallen across the European Union.
To achieve the targets, European carmakers need to increase the share of electric vehicles in their fleets. However, recent market trends show a decline in EV sales, which is a concern for manufacturers and politicians.
Kupka also noted that the Czech Republic formally proposed the deferral a fortnight ago. It was soon joined by Italy. Germany voiced its support, with Economy Minister Robert Habeck agreeing that a temporary postponement of fines would benefit the industry.
Forcing manufacturers to pay fines for failing to meet quotas will reduce the funds available for further investment in EV technology. This could hinder the sector’s progress in the long term, Kupka said.
The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) also warned that the current downward trend in BEV market share signalled serious challenges for the automotive industry. ACEA called on EU institutions to provide relief measures to help carmakers reach their targets without the burden of penalties.
Kupka also noted that the Czech Republic wanted to start discussions on delaying the EU-wide ban on internal combustion engines set for 2035. While the EU timetable calls for a review of the policy in 2026, the Czech Republic is calling for an earlier discussion, possibly as early as next year, to ensure that the policy remains adaptable to market realities.
