Attempting to spur a 55% reduction in planet-warming emissions by 2030 from 1990 levels, the European Commission has proposed a 100% reduction in CO2 emissions from new cars by 2035, essentially prohibiting the sale of combustion engine cars starting then.

EU lawmakers voted to uphold the ban despite lobbying efforts by industry groups and some politicians to weaken the proposal. The vote was taken before negotiations with EU countries on the final law had begun.

Lindner, a member of the pro-business Free Democrats, which shares power with the Social Democrats and Greens, said Germany would still be a leading market for electric vehicles, Reuters reported.