Newly adopted CO2 targets from the European Parliament aim for significant reductions in diesel HGV sales.
- CO2 emissions must decrease by 45% between 2030 and 2034, escalating to 65% by 2035-2039, and reaching a 90% reduction by 2040.
- Emission standards for trailers and semi-trailers also introduced, effective from 2030, at 7.5% and 10% respectively.
- A comprehensive review by the European Commission is scheduled for 2027 to assess the regulation’s wider effectiveness and scope.
- The targets provide clarity and an investment incentive for the manufacturing sector, say EU officials.
In a decisive move, the European Parliament has ratified new CO2 emissions targets, aiming to substantially curtail the number of diesel Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) that can be sold. These targets have been lauded as the ‘most ambitious in the world’, setting a precedent for environmental policy in the transport sector. The framework mandates reductions of 45% in CO2 emissions between 2030 and 2034, 65% by the years 2035 through 2039, and an ambitious 90% reduction by 2040.
Beyond HGVs, the legislation extends emission reduction goals to trailers and semi-trailers, starting from 2030, with required reductions of 7.5% and 10%, respectively. This broad scope highlights a comprehensive approach to tackling emissions within the transport industry.
Dutch MEP Bas Eickhout underscored the necessity of this transition, not only in achieving climate targets but also in improving urban air quality. He stressed, “The transition towards zero-emission trucks and buses is… a crucial driver for cleaner air in our cities.”
By 2027, the European Commission is tasked with conducting an in-depth review to evaluate the effectiveness of these regulations. The assessment will decide whether to broaden the rules’ application to smaller lorries and to explore the potential of CO2-neutral fuel vehicles, as well as the implementation of a carbon correction factor during this transition.
Jennie Cato from a leading manufacturer noted the importance of supportive conditions and infrastructure in achieving these targets. She pointed out, “But to succeed we need equally ambitious enabling conditions, as a whole new ecosystem moving at the same pace is required.” Although serial production of BEVs is underway, challenges remain due to regulatory focus solely on supply, neglecting market readiness and infrastructure needs, such as charging and grid capacity.
The legislation passed with a vote of 341 in favour, 268 against, and 14 abstentions, reflecting a notable divide in opinion but ultimately signalling a firm commitment to reducing transport emissions across Europe.
The European Parliament’s ambitious CO2 targets set a new benchmark in environmental policy, promising significant advances in emissions reduction.
