Fourteen groups—comprised of industrialists, local authorities and NGOs—asked the European Commission on Friday 17 April to ensure that the revival of the automotive sector after COVID-19 does not sacrifice CO2 emission standards for new vehicles.
Univeler, Metro AG, Ikea, Eurocities are among the signatories of a letter addressing this point and sent to the European institution at the initiative of the NGO T&E, which campaigns for sustainable transport.
“The recovery should create and strengthen the momentum of the European Green Deal by providing a green stimulus to ensure the EU emerges stronger and more resilient to the climate crisis”, they wrote.
It went on to say, “We therefore note with great concern the suggestion made by some areas of the car industry to relax such crucial regulations as the European CO2 standards for cars, vans and trucks that come into force this year”, (see EUROPE 12397/16, 12274/28).
Noting that sales of electric cars grew by 92% in early 2020, despite the general market decline, the signatories of the letter believe that this impetus should be regained through smart green stimulus measures.
“The majority of vehicles in Europe are purchased through leasing, so it is crucial to provide targeted support for the continued purchase of new zero-emission vehicles in this market, both for public and private fleets, as well as consumers. Combining the annual influx of hundreds of electric models together with targeted support for charging infrastructure would be an appropriate, affordable electric option for businesses throughout Europe”, explained the organisations.
Private sector signatories are members of the Climate Group's EV100 initiative. These 69 companies aim to electrify more than 2.5 million vehicles by 2030, including more than one million vehicles in the EU.
Follow this link to read the letter: https://bit.ly/3bl3kz6 (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)