Bratislava/Brussels – The production of cars with combustion engines in the EU will cease after 2035, and any vehicles that continue to be sold must undergo specific modifications. The notion that the ban on combustion engines has been rescinded is incorrect. This assertion came from Andrej Danko, Deputy Speaker of Parliament and leader of the Slovak National Party (SNS), in response to the European Commission’s (EC) automotive industry measures unveiled on December 16. Danko labeled the Commission’s statements as “false,” according to TASR.
“Reviewing the European Commission’s decision, I found that, in reality, 90 percent of cars will no longer be produced. They may claim that the ban on combustion engines has been lifted, but that ban remains in effect, as the 10 percent of cars still in production, against which automakers are protesting, will require special modifications,” clarified Andrej Danko.
TASR’s Brussels correspondent reported that on December 16, the EC revealed a set of measures aimed at assisting the automotive industry during its transition to cleaner mobility. Starting in 2035, car manufacturers must achieve a 90% reduction in emissions, with the remaining 10% offset by utilizing low-carbon steel produced within the Union or by employing electronic fuels and biofuels. This framework will facilitate the continued use of electric cars, hydrogen vehicles, plug-in hybrids, range-extended vehicles, mild hybrids, and combustion engine cars even post-2035.
Danko also commented on the recent vote by MEPs regarding the prohibition of Russian gas imports. “Our ancestors constructed gas pipelines for importing gas from the East, which was a significant advantage. The benefit of cheap gas is evident, yet it seems they want to shift us towards sourcing gas from Nordic countries, Arab nations, and other regions where Western companies operate,” he stated.
He argued that Western petrochemical corporations are vested in these areas and might feel threatened by local enterprises like Slovnaft or MOL. “Large corporations are pursuing their own agendas. All this is leading to our transformation into a colony of fools,” he emphasized. Nevertheless, he noted that there will always be individuals in the state who seek to ingratiate themselves with these entities, fostering tensions and conflicts. (18 December)
“Despite everything, 90 percent of cars will stop being produced. They may tell us that the ban on combustion engines has been lifted, but that ban still applies.” Andrej Danko
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