Fit for 55: European Parliament votes on zero-emission for cars and vans
On February 14, the European Parliament approved the zero-emissions reduction targets for new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, part of the “Fit for 55” package.
The new legislation sets the path towards zero CO2 emissions for new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles in 2035. Intermediate emissions reduction targets for 2030 are set at 55% for cars and 50% for vans. A new methodology to assess and report data on CO2 emissions will be presented by 2025, and by the end of 2026 Commission will monitor the gap between the emission limit values and the real-world fuel and energy consumption data, with appropriate follow-up measures. Continuous reporting on the evaluation of the progress towards zero-emission road mobility is expected from 2025.
The Commission's ambitious proposal of new targets for buses and trucks
On the same day, European Commission proposed a zero-emissions target for new city buses as of 2030 and 90% emissions reductions for new trucks by 2040.
Emissions from heavy-duty vehicles have been increasing since 2014, especially in freight transport, with the exception of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In line with the European Green Deal objectives, this proposal will have a positive impact on the energy transition, by lowering demand for imported fossil fuels and enhancing energy savings and efficiencies in the EU's transport sector.
The “Fit for 55” package
The package is composed of 13 legislative proposals, aiming to reduce EU greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. To help bring EU Green Deal objectives to reality, this package focuses on key changes in carbon emission, infrastructure for electric vehicles, and housing, but also highlights the role of national and local authorities, as well as the financial support needed for a successful transition.
Read the full press releases here: 1, 2.
POLIS support
Through the Clean Vehicles & Air Quality Working Group, and Urban Freight Working Group POLIS members share best practices and exchange knowledge on reducing transport-related emissions, accelerating the adoption of clean vehicles, and practice on sustainable urban freight systems.
Newly established Climate-Neutral Cities Mission Taskforce will help members to formulate actions needed to move to climate neutrality and reach their transport decarbonisation targets.
