Italy to Propose Early Review of EU Ban on Internal Combustion Engine Cars

Italy plans to submit an official proposal this week to advance the European Union's scheduled review of the ban on new internal combustion engine cars, which is currently set for 2035, according to Industry Minister Adolfo Urso.

According to Reuters, the national delegation will discuss Italy’s proposal before being officially presented at a meeting of the Union’s industry ministers.  

EIB Secures €166 Million Green Loan with BNZ to Enhance Renewable Energy in Spain, Italy, and Portugal

Italy is part of the other EU countries in opposing the European Commission's Green Deal, which seeks to combat climate change and lower pollution levels. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni often criticizes these proposals, labelling them as "ideological." 

Urso stated at a meeting with business associations and trade unions that he believes it is essential to change the course of EU industrial policy, according to a Reuters report. He added that the automotive sector is where a change to the Green Deal is most needed 

Italy Plans to Draft New Nuclear Power Rules by Early 2025, Signaling Possible Policy Reversal

In March 2023, EU member states passed a landmark law mandating that all new cars must produce zero CO2 emissions by 2035, effectively phasing out diesel and petrol vehicles and paving the way for electric cars to dominate the market. 

However, the EU Commission has set a review of this legislation for 2026 to evaluate technological progress in hybrid vehicles and their potential to meet the 2035 targets. The law also allows for an exemption for vehicles powered by e-fuels.