The European Parliament backed the revised CO2 emissions standards for new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, as part of the Fit for 55 package.
With the adopted text, MEPs are supporting the Commission’s proposal to reach zero-emission road mobility by 2035 with intermediate emissions reduction targets for 2030 set at 55 per cent for cars and 50 per cent for vans.
“An ambitious revision of CO2 standards is a crucial part of reaching our climate targets,” said rapporteur Jan Huitema. “With these standards, we are creating clarity for the car industry and can stimulate innovation and investments for car manufacturers. In addition, purchasing and driving zero-emission cars will become cheaper for consumers. I am thrilled that the European Parliament has backed an ambitious revision of the targets for 2030 and supported a 100 per cent target for 2035, which is crucial to reach climate neutrality by 2050.”
Proposed measures include removing the incentive mechanism for zero- and low-emission vehicles (ZLEV), as it no longer serves its original purpose.
MEPs are also backing a yearly report by the Commission on the progress towards zero-emission road mobility, covering the impact on consumers and employment, the level of renewable energy use as well as information on the market for second-hand vehicles.
The package also includes gradually reducing the cap for eco-innovation, in line with the proposed stricter targets.
