European truck manufacturers are pressing the European Union to grant a three‑year postponement of the 2030 CO2 emissions target for new heavy‑duty vehicles. In a joint statement released on Monday, the CEOs of the continent’s seven leading truck and bus makers—including DAF Trucks, Daimler Truck, Iveco and Scania—argued that the current market conditions do not support rapid adoption of zero‑emission trucks.
Current EU emissions rules
Under existing EU legislation, manufacturers must cut CO2 emissions from new heavy‑duty vehicles by 43% in 2030 compared with 2025 levels, with further reductions of 64% by 2035 and 90% by 2040. Companies that fail to meet the standards face fines, although they can earn emission credits for the period 2025‑2029.
Why a delay is being requested
The industry points to two primary obstacles. First, the charging network for electric trucks remains underdeveloped; only 2.4% of new heavy‑duty vehicles sold are currently zero‑emission, far short of the volume needed to meet the 2030 goal, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA). Second, high energy costs make electric trucks less economically viable for fleet operators, reducing the business case for immediate transition.
Industry’s proposed solutions
In addition to seeking a deadline extension, the manufacturers called on policymakers to create conditions that would accelerate the rollout of charging stations, speed up grid connections, expand CO2‑based road tolls and reinvest revenue from emissions trading into infrastructure and zero‑emission vehicle uptake. They argue that these measures would lay the groundwork for a sustainable shift without imposing undue financial strain on businesses.
Broader regulatory context
The request comes as EU officials debate a separate proposal from the European Commission to relax the bloc’s effective ban on new combustion‑engine cars after 2035. The proposal reflects growing pressure from the automotive sector to ease green regulations that some industry leaders view as overly ambitious.
Potential impact
If granted, a three‑year extension would shift the 2030 CO2 reduction deadline to 2033, giving manufacturers additional time to develop and commercialise zero‑emission trucks. Critics warn that delaying the target could slow the EU’s overall climate objectives, while supporters contend that a realistic timeline is essential for maintaining industry competitiveness and protecting jobs.
Both sides agree that a coordinated approach—combining regulatory flexibility with targeted investment in charging infrastructure—will be crucial for achieving long‑term emissions reductions while supporting the European trucking sector.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
