Kupka: Czech Republic wants a longer period for reporting emission targets for car manufacturers

Prague – Czechia wants to extend the reporting period for car manufacturers’ emission targets from three to five years. It will also seek to abolish the ban on the sale of new cars with internal combustion engines after 2035. This was stated to journalists today by Minister of Transport Martin Kupka (ODS) after a meeting with representatives of the Czech Chamber of Commerce. The European Commission proposed in April that car manufacturers report emission targets over three years instead of annually, which would allow them to avoid paying fines this year.

According to Kupka, any revision of the emission policy for the automotive industry should be negotiated in the second half of this year. Czechia will advocate for emission targets to be averaged over a longer period, and it will also want the EU to withdraw the proposal to introduce a mandatory share of electric vehicles in corporate fleets.

The minister reiterated his opposition to the proposed ban on the sale of new cars with internal combustion engines after 2035. “We do not need this regulation. It will be technological development that decides what people will buy,” he said. According to him, it is necessary to promote technological neutrality and not just promote electric vehicles. He considers it essential for consumers to have access to quality and affordable vehicles.

However, Kupka supports plans to strengthen charging infrastructure. According to him, this is necessary not only for Czech electric vehicle owners but also with regard to international transport. According to the minister, Czechia also supports the intention to build factories in the EU for the development and production of batteries. (May 16)