Jim argues that Europe must“ align CO2 targets with actual market adoption and provide automakers with a realistic and reliable 10-year planning horizon”. The company proposes three actions:
• Aligning EV targets with consumer behaviour
• Incentivising electrification beyond urban centres
• Protecting small businesses that rely on commercial vehicles
Current CO2 frameworks, Ford argues, disproportionately pressure light commercial vehicle operators, who are already contending with thin margins and insufficient charging infrastructure.
It adds:“ European manufacturers have invested hundreds of billions in EVs. Governments must match that commitment with consistent purchase incentives and a charging infrastructure that extends beyond wealthy urban centres into the rural heartland.”
Ford says the current approach to commercial vehicles is an“ economic tax on the backbone of Europe”.
It adds:“ Only 8 % of new vans are electric. These vehicles are tools for plumbers, florists and builders. Aggressive CO2 targets on commercial vehicles unfairly penalise the small and medium-sized businesses that generate more than 50 % of Europe’ s GDP.
62 February 2026