In our ever-evolving landscape of environmental responsibility, the European Commission has recently unveiled a groundbreaking proposal aimed at reducing CO₂ emissions from heavy-duty vehicles. Wondering how this proposal affects you? Let's delve into the details:
Effective from 2030 onwards, the European Commission's proposal introduces new CO₂ emissions targets for new heavy-duty vehicles. This comprehensive plan encompasses elevated standards for both new buses and new trucks, with a particularly ambitious focus on new city buses.
Targets for Trucks and long-distance buses:
The proposal sets its sights high for trucks and long-distance buses. By 2030, there's a targeted 45%* reduction in emissions, escalating to an even more substantial 65%* reduction by 2035*. The grand vision for 2040 is a 90%* average reduction for new vehicles.
Specific Targets for City Buses:
City buses are not exempt from these ambitious targets. New city buses are expected to achieve an 85%* reduction in emissions by 2030. Looking ahead to 2035, only emission-free new city buses will be permitted, marking a significant leap towards a cleaner urban transport ecosystem.
This proposal is not just about setting targets; it's a catalyst for change. The aim is to stimulate the adoption of lower-emission buses, especially electric buses (e-buses). In 2022, approximately 30% of all registered city buses were zero-emission vehicles, reflecting a remarkable shift. Europe has witnessed a 48% growth in the electric bus market since 2020, signaling a positive trajectory towards greener transportation. To make a meaningful impact, we recognize that simultaneous efforts are crucial. Decarbonizing electricity production and expanding charging infrastructure beyond urban centers are vital steps. This dual approach paves the way for efficient, sustainable, and reliable transportation solutions that align with our commitment to a cleaner future. To truly make a meaningful impact, we must concurrently decarbonize electricity production and expand charging infrastructure beyond urban centers, thereby paving the way for efficient, sustainable, but also reliant transportation solutions.
*reference period: 1st July 2019 – 30th June 2020