The new rules introduce a temporary flexibility for manufacturers to comply with their 2030 CO2 emissions reduction targets. The amendment does not alter the the long-term reduction targets. This amendment recognises the structural challenges currently faced by the sector, particularly the slow deployment of public charging infrastructure along motorways. It supports a smooth and steady transition towards zero-emission mobility without altering the EU’s ambitious long-term climate targets.

Between 2025 and 2029, manufacturers can now accumulate credits if their emissions fall below their own specific annual CO2 emissions targets rather than the stricter linear reduction trajectory. This temporary and targeted flexibility would allow them to generate more emission credits in the years leading up to 2030 and therefore facilitate their compliance from 2030 onwards. The flexibility is intended to incentivise earlier deployment of zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles.

The updated credit calculation mechanism applies specifically to heavy lorries (over 16t) and certain bus categories (over 7.5t). It does not apply to urban buses, as the deployment of zero-emission buses is already well-advanced and less dependent on long-distance motorway infrastructure.

Republic of Cyprus minister for agriculture, rural development and environment, Maria Panayiotou, said: "Clean mobility is the future of the EU but the path towards it is not always linear. With this timely and pragmatic amendment, we give heavy-duty vehicles manufacturers and investors the flexibility and predictability they need to navigate this transition, while electric charging stations are being deployed across Europe."