Following talks that carried late into Friday evening, representatives from both the EU and member state Germany have relayed that an agreement has been reached in the proposed 2035 ban of new combustion vehicle sales that will now include exceptions for e-fuels. After 2035, some combustion vehicles can still be sold, as long as they run entirely on carbon-neutral fuel alternatives.
We don’t feel the need to give you the full recap, because we’ve been updating this ongoing saga of the EU commission’s attempt to enact its 2035 ban on combustion cars almost bi-weekly at this point. That being said, we may have finally reached a bookend on the tale that appeases the Commission, pleases Germany, yet still leaves plenty of others upset.
Most recently, Germany’s distaste for the proposed 2035 ban of new combustion vehicle sales in the EU was gaining steam, with several allies joining the automotive powerhouse of a country in speaking out on the lack of clarity regarding carbon-neutral e-fuels.
Last October, the EU Commission thought this was already a done deal, until Germany got cold feet, so its members quickly began scrambling to reach an agreement to regain the country’s vital blessing of the ban.
Earlier this week, we learned that the EU Commission had drafted a proposal to appease the unhappy member states that included new terms for combustion vehicles using e-fuels, hearing that a deal could be done as early as this past Thursday.
Those talks carried over into Friday in Europe, but an agreement has been reached and the EU’s 2035 combustion ban can finally move forward to its final vote. That being said, additional provisions will still need to be provided to truly grasp how e-fuel vehicles can be sold without any risk of traditional fuel use.
EU’s 2035 ban gets green light following e-fuel provisions
According to the head of EU climate policy Frans Timmerman, the Commission has reached an agreement with Germany on the future use of e-fuels vehicles after the 2035 combustion ban takes effect. German transport minister Volker Wissing, who has been the ringleader in his country’s sudden change of heart regarding the ban, shared a similar sentiment on Twitter Friday:
The way is clear: Europe remains technology-neutral. Vehicles with combustion engines can also be newly registered after 2035 if they only use CO2-neutral fuel. We secure opportunities for Europe by retaining important options for climate-neutral and affordable mobility.
A new vote, which expected to take place this coming Tuesday in Brussels, should pass with Germany’s blessing, but we’ve heard that before. Other EU countries like Italy, who originally backed Germany’s call for e-fuel exceptions, want even more assurances from the EU Commission, but with Germany now back onboard the 2035 ban, those other countries aren’t a large enough minority to block the vote.
What’s interesting about the agreement is that the text of the original regulation will not change from last year. After the ministers sign off on it next week, the Commission plans to follow up with additional details on how to implement new provisions on e-fuel vehicles.
You can’t please everyone as they say, and environmental activists – already angered by Germany’s sudden change of heart toward the 2035 EU ban, are further enraged by the recent compromise for carbon-neutral vehicles. Arguments from organizations like Greenpeace state that these provisions distract from the broader goal of implementin fully-electric and ZERO-emissions vehicles – which truly feels like the inevitable path the world is on right now, even 12 years out from the EU’s 2035 combustion ban.
Even some Germans like Green member of European Parliament Michael Boss have spoken out:
The automotive sector has wholeheartedly embraced electric cars, rendering the previous debate on the matter absurd and damaging Germany’s credibility. It is now time to make reparations.
Let’s hope this is the last update regarding this story so the EU can get the 2035 combustion ban through its final vote and enacted into law. Next, we will have to see how those e-fuel provisions will work and how those automakers intend to build engines that operate carbon-neutrally without any chance of someone sneaking gas or diesel into them.
Electrek’s take
Now that we’ve (hopefully) reached a solution this whole ordeal in the EU, I feel like I can finally comment on it. As an environmentalist, EV enthusiast, and proponent of new technologies, I obviously side with the statements from Greenpeace and Michael Boss above.
To me, this whole debate feels like a grand waste of time and a mere drop in the bucket in relation to the future of mobility in both the EU and the world. If this is what it takes to get Germany back to Brussels with a vote of “aye,” fine. I understand why the EU Commission decided to bend on e-fuel exemptions.
The fact that the same agreed upon regulation on the EU’s 2035 combustion ban will remain intact is important, but I wonder how these promised e-fuel provisions will even work? These automakers that are so hellbent on allowing sales of carbon-neutral vehicles after 2035 may still have to develop entirely new engines that accept e-fuels, but not gas or diesel.
My question is, why not put all that money, research, and development into zero-emission vehicles? We’ve already reached critical mass in EV adoption, and we’ve seen the segment explode in recent years. How is the mobility landscape going to look 10+ years from now? Will anyone even be interested in an e-fuel vehicle in 2035, when they can get a BEV that hopefully has solid state batteries, some level of autonomy, and produces zero emissions for the same price, or even less?
I’m not a fortune teller, but that seems like an inevitable future with the way the industry is shifting and the speed at which EV technology is advancing. Maybe I’m dreaming, but if that is the outlook, why not fully lean in and try to lead that paradigm shift instead of clinging to technology that already feels obsolete compared to what’s currently being developed?
Regardless of the success or lack thereof e-fuel vehicles will have, I’m happy to hear the combustion ban is moving forward, and so should drivers in the EU. This is still a landmark regulation that sets a major precedent for ending carbon emissions on roads around the world.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links.More.
Take $300 off Anker’s new eufy E15 and E18 robot lawn mowers that require no wires or RTK station from $1,300
Anker’s official sub-brand, eufy is now offering the best savings yet on its new E15 Robot Lawn Mower for $1,299.99 shipped, as well as its counterpart E18 Robot Lawn Mower at $1,699.99 shipped, after using the promo code RTLM200 for either at checkout. These models just recently hit the market a few days ago for $1,600 and $2,000, respectively, with some places like Amazon currently offering $200 off the price, but you can score an additional $100 here direct from the brand by replacing the on-page coupon with the code. This knocks a total of $300 off the going rate, giving you one of the most advanced autonomous mowing solutions at the best current prices we can find.
These advanced eufy robot lawn mowers require no boundary wires or RTK station to stay on track, instead utilizing pure vision FSD tech with high-precision cameras and advanced AI to guide itself around your yard, with the E15 model covering up to 0.2 acres on a charge and the E18 model bumping that up to 0.3 acres. The brand promises a quick “5-minute setup” right out of the box, all done through its companion app, where you’ll also have a wide array of smart controls to monitor its progress, adjust settings, and manage multi-zone areas with the 3D maps that it creates as it works.
Advertisement – scroll for more content
The 3D perception system on eufy’s robot lawn mowers detect and avoid collisions with everyday obstacles that it may come across, even in complex garden environments, while the smart coverage detection “guarantees no area is left uncut.” Those with pets or regular wildlife running around can also rest assured, as its systems will ensure their safety while in operation. You’ll be able to set its cutting height between 25mm to 75mm, with it operating at a quieter 56dB level and able to handle up to 40% inclines without concern. Beyond the controls you’ll have through your smartphone, the robot can also detect rainfall and/or when the sun sets, activating its automatic station return function. On top of that, there’s even the security system that activates an alarm when removed from its set work area while providing you with GPS tracking to hunt it down.
Commute around town for up to 34 miles on NIU’s latest KQi 200F electric scooter at $699 with free gear while in pre-sale
NIU is currently taking up to 41% off a collection of its e-scooters led by a pre-sale deal on its latest KQi 200F Electric Scooter for $699 shipped with some additional free gear. This new model is slated to begin shipping on April 25 carrying a $799 price tag, but you can score the first cash savings here today while this deal lasts. Not only are you getting $100 shaved off the tag, but you’ll also be getting a free phone holder and Halo drawstring bag (valued at $52) on top of that. Head below to learn more about what this new commuting solution offers while also checking out the other models benefitting from price cuts.
A solid choice for commuters who want the option to go further than their usual cruising grounds, the NIU KQi 200F electric scooter has been given a 350W motor that peaks to 700W in order to tackle up to 20% inclines at speeds up to 20 MPH, as well as a 365Wh battery that provides you with up to 33.6 miles of travel on a full charge. There are four riding modes to choose from – e-save, sport, custom, and pedestrian – plus, the scooter comes with an IPX5 rating to protect against splashes, light rain, and even low-pressure water from any direction.
There are some solid features added in too that only further heighten the riding experience, especially the dual braking system that has a 75mm integrated drum brake in the front and a regenerative brake in the rear to recycle kinetic energy upon slowing or braking to extend travel times. There’s also the brand’s BMS system with 14 types of protection, front suspension, 10-inch tubeless pneumatic tires, wider handlebars that can fold while also offering turn signal functionality, a Halo headlight, an integrated taillight with brake lighting, a 265-pound rider payload, swappable griptape, a mechanical bell, and a LED display. What’s more, there are some app-supported smart controls, including customizable performance settings, charging limitations, and the option to lock your scooter for added security, among others.
NIU’s full lineup of KQi e-scooter deals:
Connect a hose or siphon with EGO’s 56V 3,200 PSI cordless pressure washer kit (two 6.0Ah batteries) at new $699 low
Amazon is now offering the EGO Power+ 56V 3,200 PSI Cordless Pressure Washer with two 6.0Ah batteries at $699 shipped. Back during July we saw this model fall from its original $899 MSRP to its new $800 rate, where it stayed put except for a short-lived $50 discount in mid-December and a drop to $700 during Amazon’s previous Big Spring Sale last month. The deal that’s coming in today takes things $1 under our previous mention, giving you $101 in savings at a new all-time low price. If you already have a stockpile of EGO batteries, you can score the pressure washer alone for $499 instead.
Sporting EGO’s peak power tech that utilizes two batteries at once for longer performance, this cordless electric pressure washer will run for up to 60 minutes with the two included 6.0Ah models here, which can easily be swapped out for any of the brand’s other ARC batteries. It delivers some powerful pressure at up to 3,200 PSI with a flow rate ranging from 1.2 to 2.0 GPM and three operating modes: Eco, High, and Turbo.
Its versatile design sports three connection points – one for your garden hose to attach, one for the wand, and then a third that can be utilized by an included siphon hose that you can drop into any fresh water source if you’re not around any spigots. You’ll also be getting five varying nozzles, a 25-foot high-pressure hose, a foam cannon, and a filter – plus, there’s an integrated display on the wand so you can keep track of battery levels as you work.
Amazon undercuts Anker’s Easter Sale on the SOLIX C200 60,000mAh power station at $110
By way of its official Amazon storefront, Anker is undercutting its own Easter Sale pricing on the SOLIX C200 60,000mAh Power Station at $109.99 shipped. Normally going for $170 at full price since it released back at the tail-end of August, we’ve mainly been seeing it fall to either $110 or the $100 low at Amazon since Black Friday, with the brand’s ongoing direct Easter Sale currently offering it at $10 higher. With the deal here, you’re getting a solid $60 slashed from the going rate, giving you the second-lowest price we have tracked. Be sure to head below to check out more on this model, as well as the deals on the larger 90,000mAh counterparts.
Anker’s newer SOLIX C200 DC power station comes in a more compact form factor built upon the success of the C300 DC and AC models, with a 60,000mAh/192Wh LiFePO4 capacity. The unit provides up to 300W of power output to connected devices through its five ports – two USB-As, one 140W USB-C, one 15W USB-C, and a car port – which covers your personal devices while out and on the go. The power station’s battery can be recharged by three different means, with either the 100W maximum solar input or the car port providing you with an 80% battery in 1.6 hours and its 140W USB-C port reaching the same amount a little faster at 1.3 hours.
Of course, if you want to go bigger you can currently find the SOLIX C300 DC and SOLIX C300 AC power stations down at $170 and $219, respectively, with the former matching Anker’s direct sale while the latter comes in $1 under that sale’s pricing. They both provide 90,000mAh LiFePO4 capacities to cover device charging needs, with up to 300W outputs and some port differences and variations of built-in lighting while your out camping in the wilds. The DC model sports seven ports (two 140W USB-Cs, one 100W USB-C, one 15W USB-C, two 12W USB-As, and one 120W car port) while the AC model has eight ports (three 300W ACs, two 140W USB-Cs, one 15W USB-A, one 12W USB-A, and one 120W car port).
Be sure to check out the full, massive lineup of deals from Anker’s SOLIX Easter Sale that is running through April 20, with up to 54% off in initial discounts and some free gear going along with select model purchases. We also just secured an exclusive $680 in savings on the brand’s refurbished SOLIX F3800 power station at $1,999 while it lasts.
Segway Ninebot F3 eKickScooter (preorder through April 14): $600 (Reg. $850)
Best new Green Deals landing this week
The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.
Thinking about trading in your Tesla (or any other EV) for something new? This month, automakers are handing out up to $5,000 in conquest rebates to lure you over to their side. Even better: these offers usually stack with other discounts. Here are four of the best deals worth checking out.
Acura ZDX conquest rebate deal
If you drive a competing EV, Acura’s ready to tempt you with $4,000 off the all-electric 2024 ZDX. Some buyers are reportedly snagging discounts of up to 40% off the MSRP of $64,500 in certain parts of the US. The national conquest deal runs through the end of April.
If you’re driving an EV or plug-in hybrid from a rival brand like Tesla, Rivian, or Mercedes, you can score a $1,000 conquest bonus from BMW when you switch to an all-electric i5, i7, or iX. The deal is available US-wide through April 30.
If you own or lease a non-Hyundai vehicle, you can cash in on a special Competitive Owner Coupon when you lease or buy a 2025 IONIQ 5, and this deal stacks. This conquest cash incentive ranges from $500 to $2,500 depending on the model you purchase or lease, and whether you purchase or lease. The offer’s live now on both coasts and runs through April 30.
If you’re ready to jump ship from your Tesla, Polestar’s got a seriously tempting offer: Switch to a 2025 Polestar 3 and pocket $5,000. Lease it, and things get even sweeter – you can stack that with Polestar’s $15,000 lease cash for a wild $20,000 off. The deal’s good nationwide through April 30.
Thanks to CarsDirect
If you’re considering going solar, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from a few installers. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. It has hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high-quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use, and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.
Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisors to help you every step of the way. Get started here.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links.More.
Another day, another BYD EV? The world’s largest EV maker is on a roll, seemingly launching a new model every day. After unveiling its new midsize electric sedan, the e7, BYD gave us our first official look at yet another stylish EV.
BYD reveals new e7 electric sedan
BYD is on an EV launch spree. After taking the global auto market by storm last year, the company has even bigger plans for 2025.
In the past month, BYD launched a new electric car across a few key segments as it looks to extend its lead. Two midsize BYD models, the Qin L EV sedan and the Sealion 05 SUV, hit the market. Both are equipped with BYD’s “God’s Eye” smart driving system and start under $17,000 in China.
BYD also launched its first ultra-luxury electric sedan, the Yangwang U7, last month, with prices starting under $90,000.
Advertisement – scroll for more content
Earlier this week, the company launched its first EV models, the Han L sedan and Tang L SUV, based on its new ultra-fast charging Super e-platform. The new models can add nearly 250 miles of driving range in 5 minutes, and both can be bought for under $30,000 in China.
BYD e7 midsize electric sedan (Source: BYD)
Now, BYD is preparing to launch another midsize pure electric sedan. This week, BYD revealed the first official images of the e7, which is expected to be another affordable EV option.
The e7’s wheelbase is 2,820 mm, which is about the same as that of a Tesla Model 3, which is 2,875 mm. Although no other details were shared, other than the company saying it can’t wait to unlock “a new driving experience for everyone,” a few design clues give us an idea of what to expect when it launches.
Unlike many of its new models with flush door handles, the e7 is shown with traditional ones. It also has split head and rear taillights rather than the popular full-length light bar that appears on other BYD EVs.
According to CarNewsChina, BYD’s e-series models are affordable cars, many of which are used for taxi services.
However, it’s now part of its Ocean lineup, which includes a few EVs you may be familiar with, like the Dolphin, Seal, and Seal-U. Although no date has been set, the e7 will join the lineup soon.
Official data released in China revealed the e7 is 4,780 mm long, 1,900 mm wide, and 1,515 mm tall, or about the same size as the Tesla Model 3 (4,720 mm long, 1,933 mm wide, and 1,441 mm tall). We’ll have to wait for an official driving range, but we do know it will use a lower-cost LFP battery.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links.More.