Ban on sales of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035 welcomed by environmental groups

Cars and vans fuelled by petrol and diesel are a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions as well as poorer air quality. Picture: Joe Raedle/Getty Images

An agreement that spells the end of sales of vehicles powered by fossil fuels by 2035 in Europe has been hailed by environmental groups as an historic move.

Negotiations between various governments, the European Parliament, and the European Commission will see automakers compelled to reduce emissions of new cars sold by 100% by the middle of the next decade.