In a significant policy development for the automotive sector, the Council of the European Union has officially endorsed a key amendment to the CO₂ emissions regulations for new passenger cars and vans. The change introduces a three-year averaging rule, allowing manufacturers to meet their 2025 emissions targets based on the average performance over 2025, 2026, and 2027, rather than on an annual basis.
This amendment, originally proposed by the European Commission, aims to ease pressure on automakers as they accelerate the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and cleaner technologies. By assessing compliance over a multi-year window, the rule offers regulatory flexibility while maintaining long-term climate objectives.
Key Points:
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Regulatory Clarity: The Council fully supported the Commission’s proposal without amendments, providing legal and operational certainty to automakers.
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Support for Transition: The rule offers operational breathing room for the auto industry amid ongoing electrification efforts.
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Next Steps: The European Parliament is scheduled to vote on May 8. If adopted without changes and following a legal-linguistic review, the regulation could be enacted swiftly.
The decision is closely tied to the Industrial Action Plan for the European Automotive Sector, unveiled in March 2025, which outlines strategic support for the sector’s green transition.
If approved by Parliament, this rule would become a cornerstone of the EU’s sustainable mobility strategy and a key milestone on the path to zero-emission vehicles by 2035.
At EcoActive, we continue to support businesses striving for transparent and sustainable reporting practices—whether mandated or voluntary.
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