European Parliament approves relaxed Euro 7 emissions requirements while stakeholders remain divided

(EurActiv, 14 Mar 2024) The European Parliament approved a deal on revised emissions rules for cars, trucks, and buses on Wednesday (13 March), but the file remains controversial, with stakeholders divided on whether it goes too far or not far enough in combatting emissions.

The text was passed with 297 votes in favour, 190 against, and 37 abstentions after being substantially watered down from its original draft, with lawmakers arguing that stricter vehicle emissions standards would make cars more expensive for consumers and discourage investments needed for developing electric vehicles.

Several conservative lawmakers called the Commission’s original proposal “unrealistic” on Wednesday.

“As a parliamentary rapporteur, I strongly [opposed] the Commission’s initial draft,” lead lawmaker Alexandr Vondra from the nationalist European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group said ahead of the vote. 

“My main concern was the potential impact both on industry and customers: The Commission’s proposed changes particular to vehicle testing requirements would increase manufacturing costs and raise prices for small-budget cars, which are essential for working people and rural communities,” he continued.

Vondra said it was “crucial to find a good balance between the environmental NGOs’, manufacturers’ and social interests.”

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EurActiv, 14 Mar 2024: European Parliament approves relaxed Euro 7 emissions requirements while stakeholders remain divided