MEPs deal another blow to Green Deal with softer car emissions targets

The lawmakers on the European Parliament's Environment Committee backed relaxing the EU's 2035 car emissions rules, giving manufacturers more flexibility amid rising costs and competition. The committee voted to lower the required emissions reduction for new cars from 100% to 87.5%, going further than the European Commission's proposal for a 90% cut. Car makers using climate-friendly steel would receive an additional 7.5% credit, while the target for vans would fall from 90% to 80%. The deal was negotiated by the center-right EPP, the Socialists and Democrats, and Renew Europe. European car production remains 19% to 20% below 2019 levels, according to Brussels-based economic think tank Bruegel. The sector is also facing fierce competition from China and sluggish electric vehicle sales. The EPP said the changes would protect jobs and give manufacturers more freedom over technology. It's a little cheeky. The Greens warned that weaker rules could slow the shift to electric vehicles and make investment less certain. The vote marks a shift from the EU's original plan to end sale of new combustion engine cars by 2035. The proposal still needs approval from the full parliament and agreement with the EU member states before it can become law.