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Emissions in the automotive sector

Emissions in the automotive sector

The protection of air quality is a priority for the European Commission. Emission standards are currently in place for light–duty (cars, vans) and heavy-duty vehicles (coaches, buses, trucks), and for non-road mobile machinery. The Commission also encourages technological development to help protect the environment and reduce air pollution.

Emissions from light-duty vehicles

  • Emission limits - regulations on emission limit standards Euro 5 and 6 for light passenger and commercial vehicles have introduced new stricter emission limits
  • Reducing CO2 –EU laws set binding emission targets for new car and van fleets to help reduce the CO2 emissions of light-duty vehicles. More on reducing CO2 emissions
  • Improving testing procedures - as of 1 September 2017, new car models will have to pass new and more reliable emissions tests in real driving conditions ('Real Driving Emissions' – RDE) as well as an improved laboratory test ('World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure' – WLTP) before they can be driven on European roads. More on the improved testing procedures

In September 2017, the Commission introduced an improved mandatory car emissions test to reduce vehicle emissions. In March 2018 the Commission held a public consultation on its new proposal to improve the tests. The Technical Committee on Motor Vehicles (TCMV) voted on the proposal on 3 May. More on the proposal

Emissions from heavy-duty vehicles

  • Emission limits - Regulations on EURO VI for heavy duty vehicles have introduced new stricter emission limits. Euro VI standards became mandatory on 1 January 2013
  • Reducing CO2 - the Commission is working on a comprehensive strategy to reduce CO2 emissions

Supporting information:

Light-duty vehicles

Heavy-duty vehicles