CO₂ compromise marks a step forward, but further adjustments are needed to deliver true flexibility 

Following today’s vote in the European Parliament’s Environment Committee (ENVI) on the CO₂ revision for cars and vans, CLEPA, the European association of automotive suppliers, backs the compromise to steer the EU toward a more technology-neutral decarbonisation pathway. 

“Recognising plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and vehicles running exclusively on renewable fuels (VEEFs) is critical to meeting our ambitious emission reduction targets, strengthening the competitiveness of Europe’s automotive suppliers and safeguarding EU value added,” said Benjamin Krieger, Secretary General of CLEPA. “We hope the same spirit of pragmatism will guide the next steps in the process.”  

The adopted text also introduces further flexibilities for compliance with the 2030 and 2035 targets, including an expanded super-credits mechanism, early application of low-carbon steel credits and an extended averaging mechanism for 2030. These measures reflect recommendations CLEPA has consistently put forward throughout this revision process. 

Despite these steps forward, significant limitations remain. Further improvements are needed to safeguard the role of PHEVs, including by optimising the Utility Factor freeze, and of VEEFs. The capped credit system must also be made feasible, and the car labelling provisions adopted in the European Parliament’s Transport and Industry Committee votes should be reintroduced. 

CLEPA looks forward to continuing these constructive discussions with policymakers, with the shared aim of meeting Europe’s climate ambitions while keeping high skilled jobs and automotive manufacturing in Europe.