As part of the “Fit for 55 in 2030” package, the legislature supports revised CO2 emissions standards for new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles.

With 339 votes in favor, 249 against, and 24 abstentions, MEPs adopted their position on proposed rules to revise the CO2 emissions performance standards for new cars and vans during a plenary vote on Wednesday.

With the adopted text, which represents the negotiating position of the European Parliament with member states, MEPs support the Commission’s proposal to achieve zero-emission road mobility by 2035. (an EU fleet-wide target to reduce the emissions produced by new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles by 100 percent compared to 2021). For cars, intermediate emissions reduction targets for 2030 would be set at 55%, and for vans, 50%.

“An ambitious revision of CO2-standards is a crucial part of reaching our climate targets. 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% target for 2035, which is crucial to reach climate neutrality by 2050.” Rapporteur Jan Huitema (Renew, NL) said.

The European Parliament is now prepared to negotiate with EU member states.

The Commission presented a legislative proposal on 14 July 2021, as part of the “Fit for 55” package, to revise the CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. The proposal intends to contribute to the EU’s 2030 and 2050 climate goals, to deliver benefits to citizens by deploying zero-emission vehicles more broadly (better air quality, energy savings, and lower vehicle ownership costs), and to stimulate innovation in zero-emission technologies.