EC Listened to Italy on Auto Industry Says Urso

Brussels: Business and Made in Italy Minister Adolfo Urso announced a significant victory for Italy as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen agreed to extend the deadline for the car industry to comply with new EU emission targets. The extension grants the industry three additional years, avoiding hefty fines in 2025.

According to Ansa News Agency, Minister Urso expressed satisfaction with the development, highlighting the European Commission’s alignment with Italy’s position. The announcement came after the second meeting of the Strategic Dialogue on the future of the European automotive industry, where von der Leyen confirmed the decision.

Urso emphasized that the potential financial penalties, which could have severely impacted the sector, have been removed. He stated, “The European car industry is saved, the Commission agrees with Italy.” Urso also pointed out the importance of advancing with a focus on technological neutrality, achieving strategic autonomy in battery production, and implementing a European incentive plan.

The new EU standards require that a fifth of all car sales must consist of electric vehicles (EVs), a target now set to be achieved with the extended timeline.