Group 1 - The European Commission proposed to modify the 2035 "zero-emission" target for new cars, reducing the emission reduction goal from 100% to 90%, reflecting a significant shift in the EU's climate policy [1][3] - The new regulation allows plug-in hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles with fuel range extenders to continue being sold after 2035, providing a lifeline for some traditional fuel vehicles [3] - This policy change is seen as a major victory for center-right political parties and the automotive industry in the EU, indicating a critical concession on the path to "full electrification" [3] Group 2 - The EU's automotive industry is facing significant challenges, including lagging behind global competitors in core technologies like batteries, exacerbated by trade tensions with the U.S. and weak car sales in the EU [3] - Environmentalists warn that continued investment in hybrid technology may weaken long-term commitments to fully electric vehicles, potentially widening the gap with competitors [3] - The proposal will undergo a lengthy political negotiation process, with notable divisions among EU member states regarding the approach to the ban on CO2-emitting vehicles [6]

Group 1 - The European Commission is preparing to abandon the "2035 internal combustion engine ban," which would have completely prohibited the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles in the EU from 2035 [1] - The new proposal will allow certain plug-in hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles with fuel range extenders to be sold, with a target to reduce automotive emissions by 90% by 2035, compared to the original goal of 100% reduction [2] - This shift is driven by pressure from European automakers who are struggling to compete with Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers like Tesla and BYD, marking the most significant concession in green policy by the EU in the past five years [3] Group 2 - The electric vehicle industry opposes this move, arguing it will weaken investment in the sector and hinder the EU's transition to electric vehicles, potentially falling further behind China [4] - Future plans from the EU include promoting electric vehicle adoption in corporate fleets, which account for about 60% of new car sales in Europe, with potential incentives for local production [4] - The EU may propose a new regulatory category for small electric vehicles, allowing them to pay lower taxes and earn additional credits towards carbon emission targets, alongside promoting sustainable production methods [4]

Core Viewpoint - The European Commission plans to relax the internal combustion engine ban originally set for 2035, allowing certain plug-in hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles with fuel range extenders to continue sales [1] Group 1: Regulatory Changes - The new proposal requires a 90% reduction in automotive exhaust emissions by the mid-next decade, which is a decrease from the previously set target of 100% [1] - Automakers will need to compensate for any additional pollution by using low-carbon or renewable fuels or locally produced green steel [1]