The German government has rejected an Italian initiative to bring forward the review of EU standards for CO2 emissions.

"The Italian government's plan is not supported by the German government," Environment Minister Steffi Lemke told the Reuters news agency on Wednesday. "The German government is committed to the European climate targets," emphasized the Green politician, who is responsible for the issue within the government.

Italy is pushing to bring forward the review of CO2 fleet limits, which was originally scheduled for 2026, to the beginning of 2025. The country has also made it clear that it rejects the decision to phase out combustion engines from 2035. In EU circles, Italy has also indicated that Germany is prepared to at least partially support the government in Rome in its approach.

At the end of September, Economics Minister Robert Habeck had indeed shown himself open to bringing forward the evaluation report. However, his ministry emphasized that it was not a question of dragging out the climate targets. In addition, predictability is key for the automotive industry, which has adjusted to the fleet targets.

In view of the sales crisis facing European and, in particular, German companies, there are differing opinions in the industry regarding the fleet limits. In addition to the end of combustion engines in 2035, reductions in CO2 emissions for new car fleets are planned along the way. The next stage will take effect in 2025. The average emissions of new cars must then be 15 percent lower than in 2021. E-cars are important for the reductions, but their sales have been weakening recently. Companies are threatened with fines if they fail to comply.

Lemke pointed out that many companies had prepared for these cuts. This should not now be called into question by suspending the next stage. "This would mean giving up the planning security demanded by the industry and would put those who implement the targets at a disadvantage," she emphasized.

"Safeguarding the automotive industry is a top priority for the German government," said Lemke. They are in close contact with industry and trade unions. "However, a step backwards in the European CO2 fleet limits is not on the table for Germany."

(Edited by Thomas Seythal. If you have any questions, please contact our editorial team at berlin.newsroom@thomsonreuters.com)