The Czech Republic has strongly criticised the European Commission’s newly proposed CO₂ rules for cars and is calling for a full repeal of the planned ban on new combustion-engine vehicles from 2035. Transport Minister Ivan Bednárik described the Commission’s proposal as merely “cosmetic” and insufficient to protect the automotive industry.

Under the Commission’s plan, carmakers would still be required to cut emissions by 90% from 2035, with the remaining 10% offset through measures such as e-fuels, biofuels or low-carbon steel. Prague rejects this approach and also opposes mandatory quotas for electric vehicles and preferential treatment for small EVs through so-called supercredits.

According to Bednárik, further regulation would make cars less affordable, accelerate fleet ageing and fail to deliver environmental benefits. The Czech government plans to push for substantial changes to the package during upcoming negotiations in the EU Council and the European Parliament, while seeking support from like-minded member states.

Source: PragueDaily

Prepared by the team of foreign offices CzechTrade Osaka and Tokyo