In less than 11 years, a true revolution will unfold in the automotive industry: the EU’s ban on petrol and diesel cars in 2035. However, the initial changes will start as early as 2025. These new regulations aim to phase out combustion engine vehicles from European roads, which could signal the end of an era for petrol and diesel cars. So, what will happen to petrol cars after 2030, and when will diesel cars be banned? This article provides insights into the significant transformations ahead.

The Beginning of the Petrol and Diesel Ban – 2025 and 2030

The European Union’s new regulations arise from its commitment to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, implementing agreements made in 2023. A key measure in reducing CO₂ emissions is to restrict the presence of petrol and diesel cars in the automotive market. Starting in 2025, stricter CO₂ emission limits will be applied to car manufacturers. By 2030, these emission limits will be tightened by 55% for new petrol cars and diesel models, and by 50% for SUVs. For carmakers, this means an increased push toward electric, hydrogen-powered, or e-fuel vehicles. These changes, however, are only the first steps leading to the 2035 ban on petrol cars and the eventual combustion engine ban.

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Ban on Petrol and Diesel Cars – 2035

The most significant shift in the industry will occur in 2035, marking a landmark decision to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars. According to EU regulations, all newly manufactured vehicles will need to be zero-emission, meaning that only fully electric or hydrogen-powered cars will be allowed to leave showrooms. However, following a German veto that influenced the final policy, combustion engine cars will still be available for sale, provided they are powered exclusively by e-fuels after 2035. These vehicles will come with safeguards to prevent the use of traditional petrol and diesel fuels. It’s also worth noting that new hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars will also fall under this ban.

Will Petrol and Diesel Cars Be Banned from the Roads in 2035?

While the 2035 combustion engine ban marks a major transition for the automotive industry, it primarily affects car manufacturers and will not prevent petrol and diesel car owners from keeping their vehicles. Despite the 2035 ban on petrol cars, existing vehicles on the road can continue to be driven, sold, and bought until they reach the end of their lifecycle. Additionally, the secondary market remains unaffected, meaning combustion engine cars already in circulation won’t be banned or de-registered. However, owners of petrol and diesel cars could face rising traditional fuel costs and limited access to Clean Transport Zones (CTZs), which are expected to be implemented in cities across Europe.

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Controversies Surrounding the 2035 Ban on Petrol and Diesel Cars

The upcoming combustion engine ban, particularly the planned 2035 ban on petrol and diesel cars, has been met with considerable debate. Germany, as a prominent automotive industry player, initially opposed the restriction, advocating for e-fuels as viable, emission-free alternatives for combustion engines. Major car manufacturers such as Porsche, Lamborghini, Mazda, and Toyota have also expressed reservations, especially regarding the exclusion of HEV hybrids and plug-in hybrids in 2035. Italy has also pushed back, calling for an early review of the regulations starting in 2025 and emphasizing a "pragmatic" approach over what they see as ideological. Poland, too, has voiced opposition to the ban on petrol and diesel cars.

Opportunities from the Ban on Petrol and Diesel Cars

Although the EU’s 2035 ban on petrol and diesel car sales won’t directly impact current car owners’ finances, it offers a window of time for adaptation. As demand for zero-emission vehicles increases, we can expect significant drops in the costs of electric, hydrogen, and e-fuel vehicles, along with the raw materials needed for their production. Additionally, the EU's policies are likely to accelerate the growth of electric vehicle charging and hydrogen refueling infrastructure. These improvements could make zero-emission private transportation much more accessible, both financially and practically, to the average driver.

According to the European Court of Auditors, transportation contributes around 23% of the EU’s total greenhouse gas emissions, with over half of these emissions originating from private vehicles. The combustion engine ban, particularly the 2035 ban on petrol cars, is aimed at reducing urban air pollution, which could significantly improve public health and the environment for current and future generations.

Summary of the 2035 Ban on New Petrol and Diesel Cars

The 2035 ban on petrol and diesel cars represents a turning point in the industry, though it remains a subject of contention amid widespread public debate. Owners of petrol and diesel cars can rest assured that their vehicles will not be restricted by the 2035 ban – it solely applies to new sales. While it’s uncertain whether the EU regulations will remain unchanged, stricter policies may play a crucial role in reducing air pollution and encouraging eco-friendly private transportation.