On December 13, foreign media reported that European automakers, who are currently navigating a challenging transition to zero-emission driving, may soon receive a much-needed reprieve—a phase that could determine the future of Europe's transportation sector. According to informed sources, the EU is preparing to relax the regulation that originally mandated a de facto ban on the sale of new internal combustion engine vehicles by 2035. While specific proposals remain undetermined, loophole clauses under discussion could delay the ban's implementation by five years or even cancel it entirely. German Chancellor Merz, at a joint press conference with Manfred Weber, Chairman of the European Parliament's Conservative Group in Heidelberg, stated that maintaining manufacturing competitiveness is essential for contributing to climate protection. He emphasized the need to swiftly amend European regulations to ensure the industry has a future in Europe. This policy adjustment comes as a result of intense lobbying by companies such as Stellantis Group and Mercedes-Benz Group, which are seeking to avoid potential fines exceeding €1 billion in the coming years.