EU May Scrap 2035 Combustion Engine Ban
Germany pushes to scrap the EU's 2035 petrol car ban while Sweden resists. The debate pits jobs and geopolitics against environmental goals, with Volvo's Chinese ownership adding complexity to Sweden's position.
Germany leads growing demands to cancel the EU's 2035 ban on new petrol cars. Sweden currently resists this heated debate. Jobs, growth and geopolitics now clash with environmental concerns.
The EU decision to stop combustion engine car sales from 2035 faces strong criticism. Manufacturing countries like Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Poland and Italy oppose the ban.
Sweden stands on the other side. Swedish automakers like Volvo have invested heavily in electric vehicles.
But Volvo's ownership complicates matters. The company is controlled by Chinese firm Geely. This factor deserves consideration when evaluating their stance, said EU Parliament member Charlie Weimers during a digital press briefing.
Weimers belongs to the Sweden Democrats party. Their EU group ECR chose to debate scrapping the petrol ban in Wednesday's parliament session. Weimers predicts the prohibition will eventually be overturned.
The political divide reflects deeper tensions. Countries protecting auto industries challenge nations pushing green transitions. Sweden's position appears influenced by Volvo's electric investments, yet Chinese ownership creates geopolitical complications. This debate exposes how economic interests and foreign ownership shape environmental policy.