- Oliver Zipse wants a new regulatory framework that will play into Europe’s technological strengths.
- BMW has also pushed back against EU tariffs on Chinese-made EVs.
BMW wants Europe to relax its plan to ban new petrol and diesel-powered cars from 2035 onwards, in an effort to reduce the region’s reliance on batteries from China. Unlike many other brands, BMW has adopted a multi-pathway approach with its future powertrains, investing in technologies like e-fuels and hydrogen fuel cells, in addition to battery electric vehicles.
While recently speaking at the Paris Auto Show, BMW chief executive Oliver Zipse said a new regulatory framework is needed to play into Europe’s technological strengths.
Read: BMW, Mercedes Against EU Tariffs On Chinese EVs, Say It Could Backfire
“A correction of the 100% BEV target for 2035 as part of a comprehensive CO2-reduction package would also afford European OEMs less reliance on China for batteries,” Zipse said according to Auto News. “To maintain the successful course, a strictly technology-agnostic path within the policy framework is essential.”
Whether or not Zipse’s statements will play a role in any possible changes to European regulations remains unclear. However, he is far from the first executive of a major carmaker to suggest the ICE ban needs to be reexamined. Earlier this year, Porsche chief financial officer Lutz Meschke also suggested the ban could be delayed.
Officials from Germany and Italy also refused to provide their outright support for the ban and were instrumental in the European Commission adding an exemption for ICE-powered vehicles powered by CO2-neutral fuels.
A review of the current targets has been scheduled for 2026 and the head of France’s PFA auto association added in Paris that it’s important parties “come back around the table” to discuss any possible changes.
Three years ago, Oliver Zipse said that BMW would be ready for any ICE bans when they come into force, noting the brand would “have an offering” if any “region, a city, a country gets the idea of banning ICEs.” He did indicate at the time that a blanket ban on ICEs may not be the best way forward.
