European Union prepares proposal on synthetic fuels after 2035

The European Union has taken note of Germany’s criticism and proposals concerning the planned end of internal combustion engines in 2035. It is now preparing a proposal to define the “role” of synthetic fuels after 2035, according to Automotive News.

At the end of February, Germany suggested that the EU should allow vehicles with combustion engines beyond 2035, provided they run on carbon-neutral fuels.

Germany’s stance forced the postponement of the final vote on the proposal to prohibit the sale of new cars with internal combustion engines across the European Union from 2035.

What will the European Union propose?

The proposal will be drawn up by the European Commission, the EU’s “executive arm”, although no presentation date has yet been set. Its details are also unknown, but it is expected to establish which new cars fitted with combustion engines using synthetic fuels may still be sold after 2035.

Despite this progress in discussions, sources quoted by Automotive News Europe question whether the European Union’s proposal will be capable of shifting Germany away from its current position.

Germany’s automotive industry and synthetic fuels

Germany’s position is partly explained by the importance of its automotive industry to the country’s economy. The car industry is by far the largest sector of the German economy, employing around 800,000 people and generating €411 billion.

Scepticism and a decisive meeting

Although the details of the European Union’s proposal have not yet been revealed, there are already “voices” criticising it.

One source cited by the publication asks how authorities would prevent engines from using conventional fuels if an exemption for synthetic fuels were introduced. According to this source, new additives as well as specific technologies would be needed to stop this happening, since synthetic and conventional fuels are identical at molecular level.

It is also worth recalling that representatives of the 12 countries that have raised concerns over the environmental impact of the controversial Euro 7 standard are meeting in Strasbourg today, Monday 13 March.

As well as debating proposed changes to the contentious standard, these 12 countries - including Germany and Portugal - will also discuss the ban on the sale of new cars with combustion engines from 2035.

Source: Automotive News Europe