Decisive moment for the EU’s clean car rules

The EU’s vehicle CO₂ standards are the main tool to decarbonise cars in Europe. Following the entry into force of the 2020/21 targets, electric cars entered the mass market much faster than previously expected, reaching 18% of new sales last year. Getting to 100% zero-emissions mobility is now within reach and – to ensure Europe can meet its own Green Deal goals – must be the ultimate objective of the new car and van CO₂ regulation.

On Wednesday (11 May), the Environment Committee of the EU Parliament will vote on the revision of the car and van CO₂ standards. This short briefing looks at what is at stake for the European Green Deal and Europe’s climate ambitions, and explains the next steps for the new targets to become law.