Two MEPs have called on the European Commission to urgently review Regulation (EU) 2024/1610 on CO₂ emission standards for trailers, warning that the current calculation methodology may inadvertently increase emissions and harm the industry's competitiveness. Kris Van Dijck (ECR) and Jens Gieseke (PPE) submitted a parliamentary question on 15 July 2026, following a joint declaration by 30 CEOs of leading European trailer manufacturers.
The MEPs argue that the Vehicle Energy Consumption calculation Tool (VECTO) does not reflect operational reality and may encourage designs with reduced payload capacity, requiring more journeys and potentially raising overall CO₂ emissions. They also note that high financial penalties from 2030 could negatively affect investment, employment, and competitiveness. The regulation's Article 15 provides for a review only in 2027, but the MEPs ask whether the Commission is willing to bring it forward to 2026.
acknowledgment of unintended consequences, a commitment to an earlier review, and measures to provide legal certainty and safeguard the industry's competitiveness. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks, and its answer will signal whether it shares the industry's concerns and is open to adjusting the timeline or methodology.
European trailer manufacturers would benefit from regulatory relief and legal certainty, potentially avoiding costly redesigns or penalties. EU climate policy could face a setback if the review weakens emission reduction targets. Transport operators might see continued use of less efficient trailers if rules are relaxed. EU regulators would need to balance industry competitiveness with climate goals.