Max stupid: EU may loosen EV rules for third time in two years, aiding China

The European Union may loosen its rules on car pollution for the third time in two years, according to reports. France and Germany have reportedly agreed on a plan that would cut the required emissions reduction for automakers from 90% to 80%, with a vote expected October 15. The EU had originally set a goal to phase out new gas car sales by 2035, but has walked that back twice already, most recently allowing a 90% cut (with loopholes) instead of a full ban.

This is mainly a policy and auto-industry story, not something that changes any home energy program directly. It does not involve home heating, insulation, or rebate programs. The dispute is about how fast European carmakers must shift to electric vehicles, with automakers pushing for slower timelines while Chinese EV makers continue gaining market share in Europe with cheaper electric models.

For homeowners, the main relevance is general: it shows that EV rules, like other climate-related policies, can shift over time as industries lobby for delays. If you're watching EV prices or availability as part of planning a home charging setup or weighing an EV purchase alongside other home upgrades, it's worth knowing that European manufacturers may slow their electric vehicle rollout, which could affect global vehicle pricing and competition over time. But there is no change here to U.S. rebates, tax credits, or home energy programs.