On the Dash:
- Stellantis supports Germany’s push to ease EU car emissions rules to help revive Europe’s struggling auto sector.
- The European Commission will review carbon-emission targets on Dec. 10, with industry lobbying for more flexibility for ICE and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
- Stellantis warns that failing to adjust EU regulations risks “irreversible decline” in the European automotive industry.
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa on Monday expressed his support for Berlin’s call to soften European Union car emissions regulations. He said Germany’s proposal aligns with industry demands to restore growth in the struggling European auto sector.
On Dec. 10, the European Commission will unveil a package of proposals designed to support the auto industry, including a highly anticipated review of carbon-emission targets. The move comes as pressure from governments and vehicle manufacturers intensifies, with increasing calls for more flexibility and continued allowance of plug-in hybrids and ICE vehicles after 2035.
“We welcome the German government’s support for revisions to the European regulations,” Filosa said in a statement, adding that the industry needs urgent, definitive action to revitalize growth.
On Friday, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz sent a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, arguing that the timeline to phase out combustion engines was unrealistic and that automakers need more flexibility as they grapple with slowing EV adoption, tariffs and fierce Chinese competition.
Following the ousting of its former CEO, Carlos Tavares, Stellantis rejoined the European auto lobby ACEA after exiting in early 2023. Since returning, the automaker has become an outspoken advocate for changes to the EU’s auto regulations. In a plea to the European Commission on Tuesday, Stellantis Chairman John Elkann cautioned that the European auto industry risked “irreversible decline” if the EU refused to soften its carbon-emissions targets.
“There is another way to cut emissions in Europe in a constructive and agreed way,” he stated during an event celebrating the start of the production of the Fiat 500 hybrid.
As Brussels prepares to release its proposal package, the auto industry’s message has grown increasingly unified. Automakers argue that a more flexible emissions roadmap is essential to restoring Europe’s competitiveness. With policymakers weighing the future of hybrids, combustion engines, and EV adoption, the next round of decisions will carry significant implications for the sector’s long-term stability.
