The European Union is reportedly preparing to relax its emissions reduction targets for automakers for the third time in two years. France and Germany have reached a deal to propose lowering the required emissions reduction threshold from 90% to 80%.
The proposal also includes weakening interim targets for car manufacturers. This agreement follows previous adjustments made in March 2025 and a subsequent rollback nine months later that introduced optional credits and e-fuels.
France and Germany plan to present their joint proposal to the EU on October 15. Despite opposition from six other member states, the shift in France's position suggests the bloc may have sufficient support to approve the changes.
The EU is currently pressuring the UK to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles as a condition for participating in the Buy European agreement. Meanwhile, Chinese manufacturers are rapidly increasing their market share in Europe by offering competitive electric models.
