Antonio Filosa urges the EU to revise 2035 combustion ban and promote technological neutrality
The European Union has begun an early review of its plan to ban combustion engine cars by 2035, responding to growing political and industrial pressure for a more balanced approach to mobility. The central idea behind the revision is technological neutrality — allowing multiple propulsion systems to coexist, including electric, hybrid, and low-emission combustion options.
One of the strongest advocates for this revision is Stellantis, the automotive group behind major brands like Fiat, Peugeot, Alfa Romeo, and Vauxhall. During his appearance on the Italian program Cinque Minuti hosted by Bruno Vespa, CEO Antonio Filosa sharply criticized EU environmental rules, calling them unrealistic and harmful to the European automotive industry.
🔍 Key Points of Filosa’s Proposal
| Issue | Filosa’s Position |
|---|---|
| Freedom of Choice | Regulations should reflect market realities and allow consumers to choose between electric, hybrid, and combustion cars — similar to the U.S. model. |
| Fleet Renewal | Europe’s 256 million vehicles, with 150 million over 12 years old, are major polluters. Incentives should focus on renewing old fleets instead of only pushing EV adoption. |
| Support for Small Cars | The EU should encourage production of compact, efficient cars, making mobility affordable for all citizens. |
| Commercial Vehicle Targets | Current emission targets for vans and light commercial vehicles are “unattainable” and need urgent revision. |
“We need rules that reflect market reality and give customers back the freedom to choose the car they want — just like in the United States,” said Filosa.
🏙️ A “Kei Car” Future for Europe?
Filosa’s comments align with other Stellantis leaders, such as Jean-Philippe Imparato, who at the 2025 Munich Motor Show proposed reintroducing city cars — lightweight, low-cost models inspired by Japan’s kei cars.
These vehicles would fit defined limits of size, weight, and power, while offering tax benefits to manufacturers and consumers. Stellantis believes this could preserve affordability while still supporting emission reduction goals.
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CLICK HERE“We can create a European version of kei cars — affordable, efficient, and environmentally friendly,” suggested Filosa.
🇮🇹 Stellantis Strengthens Commitment to Italy
Filosa also reaffirmed the company’s strategic commitment to Italy, calling it “the heart of Stellantis’s plan.”
He cited upcoming projects as proof:
- Launch of the new Jeep Compass in Melfi
- Introduction of the Fiat 500 Hybrid in Mirafiori next month
- A total investment of $2.1 billion (€2 billion) in Italy
- $6.3 billion (€6 billion) in purchases from Italian suppliers
“There are no plans to reduce staff. Each plant has a clear production mission,” he emphasized.
However, Filosa acknowledged challenges such as energy and labor costs.
“In Spain, we pay about $85–$95 per megawatt-hour. In Italy, it’s more than double that,” he explained.
He also confirmed that Stellantis’ design center will remain in Italy, preserving a key part of the company’s creative and technological identity.
🌏 “China Is Not the Problem”
When questioned about China’s growing influence in the automotive sector, Filosa redirected attention to internal European issues.
“The problem isn’t China. The problem is Brussels’ regulations — they’re unrealistic and are weakening what we do best: our European automotive industry.”
He concluded optimistically, saying that with more balanced regulations, Europe could regain its global leadership in automotive innovation.
“If these rules change, Europe can once again lead with design, technology, and creativity — just as it always has.”
💡 Summary
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Criticism | EU’s 2035 combustion engine ban and unrealistic emission goals |
| Proposed Solution | Technological neutrality, support for small cars, and fleet renewal |
| Investments in Italy | $2.1 billion in local production, $6.3 billion in supplier purchases |
| View on China | Not the main threat; EU overregulation is |
| Goal | Restore Europe’s automotive competitiveness and innovation leadership |
In short:
Antonio Filosa’s message is clear — the future of European mobility should not be dictated by ideology, but by innovation and consumer freedom.
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