Germany and France have agreed on a common position aimed at softening parts of the European Union’s planned phaseout of new combustion-engine vehicles.
The shift reflects pressure from Europe’s car industry, which is struggling with weak demand, Chinese competition and the cost of the transition to electric vehicles.
Europe’s auto policy is being recalibrated
Berlin and Paris are seeking more flexibility around the technologies and compliance paths manufacturers can use to meet long-term emissions targets.
Automakers have argued that rigid deadlines could weaken European production and employment if charging infrastructure and consumer demand do not expand quickly enough.
Any change would require agreement at EU level and is likely to trigger debate between industrial-policy advocates and climate groups.
Sources
- German and French government statements, Oct. 7, 2026
- Anadolu Agency / European media reports, Oct. 7, 2026
