EU agrees on new emissions standards for trucks

As part of proposals to encourage clean mobility, the first EU standards to reduce pollution from trucks have been provisionally agreed between the European Parliament and Council.

The proposals detail strict new standards, meaning that new trucks will have to have 30% lower emissions by 2030. This is part of the EU’s preparations to meet the targets set out in the Paris Agreement. The target for road transport is to achieve zero emissions by 2050.

At the end of last year, plans for new standards on cars and small vans built after 2020 were detailed. This, and the new proposal for trucks, are both key strategies to meet targets.

To manufacturers in the industry, there have been some concerns raised. Industry experts say that EU governments need to ensure they develop the right infrastructure for firms to meet the targets.

Industry group ACEA described the goals as “demanding”, adding that “member states to urgently step up their efforts to roll-out the infrastructure required for charging and refuelling the alternatively powered trucks which will need to be sold en masse if these targets are to be met.”

However, the EU says that the changes are vital if the emissions targets are to be met. In their statement, they outline some of the benefits they hope to see. Some of these benefits are:

• The targets would help member states meet the required targets.
• They would provide incentives for innovation in the industry.
• There would be more clean mobility solutions available.
• It will encourage competition within the industry in the EU; this would also increase employment in certain areas.
• New technology would reduce fuel consumption, reduce the effects of climate change, and improve air quality.

The new targets have been provisionally agreed upon. Now, they will need to be formally approved by Parliament and the council, and then by legislators. If approved, there will be, going forward, major changes to how trucks are manufactured in Europe.