The European Council and Parliament have reached a provisional deal to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from heavy-duty vehicles (Reuters, europa). The agreement aligns with the European Commission's target set in 2021, aiming for a 90% reduction in emissions from new trucks over 7.5 tons and coaches by 2040 (Reuters). 

The original draft regulation was proposed by the Commission in February 2023 as a way to help the European Union (EU) reach climate neutrality by 2050 and lower the demand for imported fossil fuels (europa). The deal includes interim targets for 2030 and 2035, with a 45% and 65% CO2 reduction, respectively. Additionally, there is a zero emission target for urban buses by 2035, with a 90% reduction by 2030 (Reuters). 

The heavy-duty vehicle sector accounts for over a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions from road transport in the EU (europa). The agreement will be submitted for endorsement by Member States' representatives and the Parliament's environment committee, while certain exemptions apply to specific vehicle categories and uses. 

The deal was not supported by the European People's Party, the largest political party in the European Parliament (Reuters). The European Commission hopes that this “agreement sends another clear signal to manufacturers, transport operators and users to steer investments towards innovative zero-emission technologies and boost the rollout of recharging and refueling infrastructure” (europa).