No EU electric rollback in auto action plan, warns lobby

Today Radio Schuman features an interview with Kristian Ruby, secretary-general of Eurelectric, calling for the Commission to maintain emissions reduction commitments in a key auto sector strategy paper coming today.The European automotive sector, employing 13 million people and contributing approximately 7% of the continent’s GDP, faces multiple challenges, including weak demand, stringent EU emissions targets, rising competition from Asia, and declining interest in electric vehicles. In response, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to unveil measures aimed at enhancing the industry’s competitiveness while upholding overall emission reduction goals.Automakers have opposed the EU’s 2025 CO2 reduction targets and lobbied against penalties for non-compliance. However, von der Leyen has already announced a relaxation of the annual review rule, extending the compliance period from one to three years. Additional plans to support EV production are also anticipated.Radio Schuman also flags an important meeting of EU home affairs ministers in Brussels and asks which countries offer the most take-home pay after taxes in Europe.Radio Schuman is hosted and produced by Maïa de la Baume, with journalist and production assistant Eleonora Vasques, audio editing by David Brodheim. Music by Alexandre Jas.Europe Today is Euronews’ daily podcast hosted by Maria Tadeo and Méabh Mc Mahon, broadcasting directly from Brussels, at the heart of Europe.   Every morning, we deliver the top and exclusive stories shaping the European Union (EU) and beyond.Stay ahead with the key news and insights that matter in Europe today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.