Commission lorry CO2 strategy shows urgent need for lorry fuel-efficiency standard

Between 1990 and 2010 lorry emissions rose 36% and now represent 6% of total EU emissions. Meanwhile, the EU has pledged to reduce transport emissions by 60% compared to 1990 levels [1]. To deal with rising lorry emissions, the Commission has proposed a tool to measure, certify and report lorry CO₂, hoping that increased transparency may accelerate improvements. In the US, meanwhile, the Obama administration introduced fuel economy regulations for lorries in 2011 and is currently planning a second round of standards for the post-2020 period [2].

 

William Todts, senior policy officer at Transport & Environment, said: “Lorry fuel efficiency has remained stagnant for 20 years, but while the US has quickly set standards for American trucks to improve their fuel economy, Europe is just treading water. Fuel economy standards will slash fuel bills, reduce oil and diesel imports and cut climate-changing emissions.”

 

Fuel bills make up around 30% of hauliers’ costs and fuel-efficiency is a key concern for the logistics sector. Fuel economy standards for lorries could improve efficiency by 35%, which would save hauliers over €14,000 per year in fuel bills and drastically cut CO₂ emissions. Over the vehicle’s lifetime fuel bills could be up to €150,000 lower [3].  

 

“Fuel economy standards are already delivering lower fuel bills for car and van drivers. It’s time for the Commission to stop strategizing and finally introduce robust standards for Europe’s lorries as well, ” Todts concluded.

 

ENDS

 

Notes to editors: