Why European Truck Manufacturers Are Pushing to Weaken CO2 Targets

European Truck Manufacturers Push for Weaker CO2 Emission Targets

In a surprising move, major European truck manufacturers, including Volvo Trucks, Daimler Truck, Scania, MAN, Iveco, and Ford, have petitioned the European Union to ease stringent CO2 emission targets imposed on heavy commercial vehicles. This request, revealed in a letter sent to the EU Commission on October 13, 2025, has ignited considerable debate within the industry and among environmental advocates alike.

The Current Landscape of CO2 Regulations

Under the existing EU regulations, truck manufacturers are required to cut CO2 emissions from new vehicles by 15% by 2025, 45% by 2030, and an ambitious 90% by 2040, based on 2019 levels. These regulations were put in place to tackle the urgent issue of climate change, driving the transition towards greener technologies and practices in the transportation sector. Yet, the manufacturers argue that the process of meeting these targets is burdensome, particularly calling out the annual incremental reductions that are required.

A Call for Flexibility

The manufacturers propose a credit system that would allow them to accumulate emission credits between the target years. Essentially, if they exceed the 15% reduction target by 2025, they want the opportunity to use those additional credits to offset their emissions when striving to meet the 45% reduction threshold in 2030 and beyond. "This system would provide needed flexibility and could ultimately lead to lower CO2 savings over time," said Christian Levin, CEO of Scania and chairman of the Commercial Vehicle Committee of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA).

Challenges Faced by the Trucking Industry

Levin described the manufacturers' request as a 'cry for help,' stating that while they fully support the emission targets, the current implementation poses significant challenges. He emphasized that external factors such as limited battery availability and insufficient charging infrastructure play a pivotal role in their ability to comply with these regulations. In essence, they argue that penalties imposed for missed targets overlook these broader systemic issues.

Environmental Concerns and Market Implications

Environmental advocates have a different perspective. Critics, including groups like Transport & Environment, warn that weakening emission standards could adversely impact the transition to electric vehicles in Europe, which is crucial for achieving broader CO2 reduction goals. According to their estimates, relaxing these regulations could reduce sales of zero-emission trucks in the EU by 27% by 2030. Stef Cornelis, head of T&E’s Freight and Fleet Management Division, remarked that such changes represent a significant rollback of Europe’s commitment to decarbonization.

Economic and Strategic Considerations

As the competition from Chinese manufacturers in the electric truck market increases, the industry faces mounting pressure to advance its electrification strategies more rapidly. The argument for relaxing regulations presents a double-edged sword; it reduces immediate compliance pressures but could jeopardize long-term goals, both for manufacturers and for the environment.

Regulatory Response and Future Outlook

The European Commission has not yet issued a response to the manufacturers’ request, but there are indications that adjustments to CO2 standards are being contemplated. Meanwhile, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently promised long-term support for the commercial vehicle industry, although the form this support will take remains unclear. The balance between regulatory enforcement and industry support is precarious and will require careful consideration of both environmental impacts and economic viability.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for the Industry

This request from truck manufacturers signifies a crucial crossroads for Europe’s transportation sector. As adaptations to climate change become increasingly urgent, the path forward remains contentious and fraught with competing interests. Stakeholders must navigate the intricate dynamics of achieving environmental goals while maintaining economic stability and encouraging innovation. It is critical for industry players, governments, and environmental groups to engage in constructive dialogues that can lead to sustainable solutions that preserve the integrity of environmental commitments while supporting industry recovery and growth.