Leading European car manufacturers and their suppliers have sent an appeal to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, expressing concern over the current plans for transitioning the industry to electric vehicles. According to automotive industry representatives, the set deadlines and existing support measures do not match the real capacity of the market and could lead to a loss of competitiveness for the European automotive sector.
The letter notes that meeting the strict CO2 emission reduction requirements for passenger cars and vans by 2030 and 2035 is becoming increasingly unrealistic under current economic and geopolitical conditions. Industry leaders emphasize that successful transformation requires more flexible timelines and a significant expansion of programs to stimulate demand for electric vehicles.
Automakers point to insufficient charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, high electricity prices, and limited access to key components, especially batteries, most of which are produced in Asia. Additionally, they highlight trade barriers such as US tariffs, which hinder the export of European cars to important external markets.
According to industry associations, the share of electric vehicles in the European market remains low: around 15% for passenger cars, 9% for vans, and only 3.5% for trucks. Automotive industry representatives believe that to accelerate the transition to eco-friendly transport, long-term and consistent incentives are needed, including lowering electricity costs for charging, purchase subsidies, and tax breaks.
The statement pays particular attention to the need to revise the emissions reduction schedule in the transport sector. According to the letter’s authors, this would help maintain industrial competitiveness, social stability, and Europe’s strategic resilience. They also propose expanding support measures for fleet renewal, including for commercial vehicles, to make electric vehicle ownership more accessible for businesses and individuals.
Automaker executives note that without a comprehensive and realistic approach to industry reform, Europe risks losing its status as one of the world’s automotive leaders. They urge the European Commission to simplify bureaucratic processes and speed up decision-making so that consumers do not face uncertainty when choosing new technologies.
A meeting will soon take place in Brussels to discuss the future of the European automotive industry. Industry representatives believe this is the EU’s last chance to adjust its policy in line with current economic and geopolitical realities and preserve one of the key sectors of the European economy.
