Update
An analysis conducted by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) has revealed that European automakers are just 9 grams away from reaching the interim target set by the European Union, which aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to 93.6 grams per kilometer by 2027.
Peter Mock, the director of the organization, explained that the sector’s core strategy focuses on accelerating sales of zero-emission vehicles, particularly fully electric cars, to offset the continued high levels of pollution caused by combustion engine vehicles.
Mock noted that the rapid decline in battery costs, the expansion of charging station networks, and accelerated environmental performance advancements make achieving this target attainable. He added, “The shift to electricity in the European Union is not only moving in the right direction but is also accelerating at a greater pace,” reminding that the 2015 scandal known as “Dieselgate” prompted companies to rely more on electric cars to regain trust and reduce emissions.
Despite this momentum, Mock warned that any delay in the transition might undermine the competitiveness of the European industry compared to other markets, especially China, emphasizing that the focus should be on global competitiveness, not just European targets.
According to ICCT data, Europe is currently a net exporter of fully electric vehicles and ranks second worldwide in production. These vehicles accounted for 17% of the European car market in the first half of 2025, a record high.
It is worth noting that the carbon dioxide emissions target was initially set for 2025 but was postponed to 2027 to give companies more time to address technical challenges and accelerate the electric transition. This information comes as the European Union reviews its plan for a gradual ban on the sale of new polluting cars starting in 2035, amidst calls in Germany to reconsider this decision.
