Core Points - The European Union is proposing to soften emissions rules for new cars, effectively scrapping a ban on combustion engines due to pressure from the automotive industry [1][3] - The proposal allows carmakers to slow the rollout of electric vehicles (EVs) in Europe, aligning the region more closely with the US, where efficiency standards are being relaxed [2][3] - The new regulations will require a 90% reduction in tailpipe emissions by the middle of the next decade, compared to the previous goal of 100% reduction [5] Industry Impact - The proposal is expected to be adopted by EU commissioners and will undergo discussions in the European Parliament and EU Council, with potential amendments from each institution [6] - Environmental groups express concern that the changes may create loopholes that undermine Europe's climate ambitions and hinder European manufacturers in competing with Chinese brands in the EV market [8][9] - The automotive industry, particularly German manufacturers, has lobbied for these changes to protect jobs and ease political tensions amid increasing competition and trade tariffs [10][11] Market Dynamics - Sales of new battery-electric cars have slowed, particularly in Germany, due to the withdrawal of purchase incentives, although growth is recovering with some subsidies returning [12] - The uptake of EVs varies significantly across Europe, with pure EV registrations accounting for 35% of sales in the Netherlands compared to only 8% in Spain [13] - The proposal package includes measures to boost the uptake of small electric vehicles made in Europe, including a 10-year exemption from certain safety and emissions requirements [14]

Policy & Regulation - EU is urged to reconsider the 2035 deadline for banning combustion engines [1] - The call aims to allow the car industry a more flexible approach to climate neutrality [1] Industry Impact - The German Chancellor advocates for a softer path for the car industry [1]

Core Insights - Fluxys Belgium reported a revenue of 329.3 million euros in the first half of 2025, marking an increase of 32.6 million euros compared to 296.7 million euros in the same period of 2024 [2] Financial Performance - Revenue increased by 10.9% year-on-year, reflecting strong operational performance [2] - Significant growth in volumes transported to Germany and the Netherlands [2] Infrastructure Developments - Storage capacity is fully utilized, indicating robust demand [2] - Additional transmission capacity has been developed to be future-proof [2] - New loading docks have been commissioned at Zeebrugge, enhancing operational capabilities [2] Market Positioning - Zeebrugge is strengthening its role in the bio-LNG market [2] - Construction has commenced on initial hydrogen and CO2 infrastructure, positioning the company for future energy transitions [2] - Fluxys c-grid has been appointed as the CO2 network operator in Wallonia, marking a significant step in cross-border CO2 infrastructure development [2] Sustainability Goals - The company is making strides towards climate neutrality through its various initiatives [2]