# EU Parliament Committee Approves Flexibility for 2035 Emission Targets Lawmakers propose lowering CO2 reduction targets to 87.5% with new industrial incentives. - **Source:** [Il Sole 24 Ore – Mondo](https://www.ilsole24ore.com/sez/mondo) - **Published:** 2026-11-04 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/8aa00d97-a5f8-4ef2-b9b6-b4c6ab62e8a5 ## Parliament Committee Adopts Position The European Parliament Environment Committee has officially adopted its negotiating position regarding CO2 emission targets for new vehicles. The proposal passed with 48 votes in favor, 30 against, and two abstentions. This mandate sets the stage for upcoming negotiations with EU governments, with a final plenary vote expected to take place this December. ## Revised Emission Reduction Targets Lawmakers are proposing a reduction of the 2035 CO2 abatement target for vehicle fleets from the original 100% to 87.5%. To reach a 95% threshold, manufacturers could utilize credits linked to the use of low-carbon steel produced within the European Union, covering up to 7.5% of the reference objective established in 2021. ## Industry Demands Greater Flexibility Confindustria and the German industrial association BDI have issued a joint statement calling for increased ambition and flexibility. While acknowledging the progress made, these organizations argue that current rules must better safeguard the competitiveness of the European automotive sector. They emphasize the necessity of maintaining technology neutrality throughout the upcoming interinstitutional negotiation process. ## Proposed Alternative Emission Thresholds The industrial groups are specifically advocating for a 90% reduction target without additional conditions. They are also requesting a revision of restrictions on eligible fuels to ensure a level playing field for vehicles powered exclusively by alternative fuels. This approach aims to provide a clear regulatory framework to encourage long-term industrial investments. ## Protecting Jobs and Competitiveness The joint position from Italian and German industry representatives highlights the need to support decarbonization while simultaneously protecting employment and industrial output. Consequently, they oppose the introduction of mandatory quotas for corporate fleets, suggesting instead that national authorities should set indicative, realistic targets for low-emission and zero-emission vehicles across the continent. ## Specific Manufacturer Considerations The proposal advocates for a regulatory framework that accounts for the unique operational realities of manufacturers with smaller production volumes. By focusing on specific manufacturer needs, the industry hopes to avoid overly rigid mandates that could disproportionately impact smaller players. This strategy aims to ensure the entire automotive supply chain remains viable during transition. ## Future Trilogues and Negotiations While the current compromise is viewed as an improvement over the initial European Commission proposal, industry leaders insist that further progress is required during the trilogue negotiations. The goal is to establish rules that are practically applicable for businesses while remaining open to diverse technological solutions to ensure a sustainable future. ## Balancing Climate and Industry The ongoing debate reflects the complex challenge of aligning aggressive climate goals with the economic realities of the European automotive industry. As negotiations move toward the December plenary, the focus remains on creating a policy that secures both environmental protection and the long-term stability of the European manufacturing sector and its workforce. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.ilsole24ore.com/art/auto-primo-si-parlamento-ue-flessibilita-target-taglio-emissioni-2035-AJwKji4B — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._