ACEA

CO2 proposal for transporters and vans must be modified

The legislative proposal for limiting CO2 emissions from light commercial vehicles, adopted by the European Commission in October and subject to approval by the European Parliament and Member States, must become much more tailored to the specific vehicle segment and grant sufficient lead-time.

The European automobile industry is proceeding at full pace to reduce further CO2 emissions from its vehicles and is confident to meet legislative targets if a supportive policy and legislative framework is secured. The current proposal, however, does not ensure sufficient industrial lead-time and sets an unfeasible 2020 limit value.

Lead-time is essential to sustain investments and adapt vehicles at a reasonable time in their product cycle, keeping them affordable. Light commercial vehicles have a substantially longer development phase as well as
product cycle than passenger cars.

Policy makers are urged to perform a thorough analysis of the proposal’s impact on the economy, employment and the environment, in particular with regard to the long-term target. Penalties should be based on the carbon price in the European Emission Trading Scheme. Furthermore, a comprehensive package of market incentives would help ensure that fleet renewal takes place, especially in an economically depressed market.

last updated 08/02/2010

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