Europe's Hybrid Surge Threatens 2035 EV Mandate
Source: The Next Web
Hybrid sales are now outpacing both EVs and gas-only vehicles in Europe, undercutting the continent's legally binding requirement to phase out internal combustion engines by 2035. Automakers are pivoting to plug-in hybrids as a compliance workaround that lets buyers avoid electric infrastructure challenges while maintaining regulatory optionality. The vehicle class postpones rather than solves the emissions transition. If hybrids hold share through mid-decade, manufacturers face a compressed technology and production window to retool factories for full electrification or face massive fines.