ACEA’s secretary general Erik Jonnaert says it will be “a major challenge for industry and operators” to reduce emissions by 15% by 2025 and 30% by 2030, and warns that the sector’s competitiveness could be damaged significantly.
“What is possible for cars is often not an option for trucks – the difference between both is fundamental,” he says.
“Truck makers are willing to further cut carbon emissions but this should happen at a pace that is realistic, as it will not be possible with today’s technology alone.”
To achieve these targets, there needs to be a swift uptake of trucks powered by alternative fuels, he points out. “However, it remains highly questionable whether the needed charging and refuelling infrastructure suitable for trucks can be rolled out within the span of just a few years.”
He adds: “Clearly, we are talking about huge investments here. In parallel, transport operators will also have to renew their truck fleets at a much faster pace. All this must happen before 2025, but is outside the control of our industry.”
ACEA is concerned that the CO2 standards for trucks depend on a baseline that is yet to be determined – so truck manufacturers will not know their specific targets before 2021. This is particularly problematic given the long lead time for the vehicles.
Yesterday’s agreement marked the start of the adoption process. Another meeting is scheduled for 8 January, with the European Council hoping to finalise the regulation before the end of March.