Abstract:

The current carbon dioxide (CO2) emission standards for new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles (vans) in the European Union (EU) have been in place since 2023. Key measures include a 55% fleet-wide CO2 reduction target for new passenger cars by 2030 and a 100% reduction target by 2035. In May 2025, the standards were amended, and an averaging provision was added for the 2025–2027 period, meaning manufacturers can comply with targets by averaging their performance over the three years. The regulation is scheduled to be reviewed in 2026. In preparation, the European Commission will submit a Progress Report to the European Parliament and Council in December 2025, and every two years thereafter.

The EV Transition Check draws upon a range of data and analysis to assess topics ranging from electric vehicle (EV) uptake to battery production and related supply chains. The data presented encompasses all and goes beyond the elements the European Commission is required to consider in its Progress Report regarding passenger cars.