Discussion in the EP on strengthening the CO2 emission performance targets for new heavy-duty vehicles

On 26 April 2023, the European Parliament Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) met to discuss with the Commission on the proposal for Strengthening the CO2 emission performance targets for new heavy-duty vehicles.

The Commission said that their proposal aimed to save 50 million tonnes of CO2 emissions per year and included support for the mobilisation of industry and circularity. The EC seeks to extend to almost all heavy-duty vehicles with certain exemptions and sets targets for 2035 and 2040. 

The presentation emphasized the coherence of the Green Deal, the challenges ahead, such as the need for investment in infrastructure and reskilling of workers, and the benefits of CO2 reduction, including cost savings and better air quality.

Some Members of the European Parliament, including the rapporteur Yannick Jadot (Greens/EFA, FR) argued that the Commission’s target of a 95% reduction in emissions by 2040 is not ambitious enough and should be amended to achieve 100% reduction by 2035. Conversely, many MEPs from the centre-right and right groups argued that this target was way too ambitious. Additionally, these MEPs also called for more technological neutrality and urged for a more rational approach that preserves the industry and considers the socioeconomic impact of the transition to low-carbon fuels.

Timeline:
• Proposal for a draft report – 26-27 June
• Deadline for amendments – 4 July
• Vote in ENVI – mid-October (TBC)