American car giant Ford has joined 27 other companies in a petition that is calling on the European Union to ban the sale of new ICE cars and vans from 2035.
The EU says its decision makers are currently deciding on new car clean rules following a proposal from the EU Commission that only zero-emission new cars and vans should be sold in the EU from 2035.
The petition states that by removing fossil fuel burning vehicles from the road, it will help Europe in achieving its goal of net zero emissions by 2050.
Last year the European Union pledged to cut 100% of CO2 emissions from vehicles by 2035, across its member states.
In the UK the government has outlined its plans to ban the sale of new non-zero emission cars from 2030, although an exemption for some hybrids will run until 2035.
Ford and other firms such as Volvo are calling on the EU to establish a clear timeline for the industry and suppliers to follow to ensure the transition to electric vehicles is successful.
Ford has already committed to phasing out ICE cars from its line-up by 2035 and hopes to achieve net-zero carbon neutrality in the same timeframe.
The Michigan-based car firm is aiming to launch seven new electric cars by 2024, including an electric version of the Ford Puma and a new E-Transit Custom van.
“At Ford in Europe, we believe that freedom of movement goes hand-in-hand with caring for our planet and each other,” said Stuart Rowley, chair, Ford of Europe.
“That’s why we are targeting all Ford vehicles to be zero emission by 2035. To successfully achieve this, EU policymakers must also establish mandatory national targets for a seamless electric charging infrastructure that lives up to the growing demand for electric vehicles.”
The European Parliament and EU governments will decide their positions in June, with the final law expected to be adopted in autumn.
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