EU eases up on 2035 car ban—hybrids get the green light

Auto Dec 12, 2025

The EU just softened its big 2035 plan to ban new combustion engine cars.
Now, plug-in hybrids and range-extender vehicles will still be allowed after 2035, instead of going fully electric.
This move is a major shift from the original push for only zero-emission vehicles.

Why does it matter?

This change comes after pressure from countries like Germany and Italy, who argued that banning all combustion engines would hurt jobs.
Critics also warned that the original plan ignored cleaner tech options.
For automakers (and anyone eyeing an affordable car), it means more choices stick around, less stress on companies struggling with EV costs, and a better shot at keeping European car jobs safe as competition heats up with China.