The European Parliament's joint ENVI-TRAN committee on 3 June 2026 debated a draft report proposing binding targets for zero- and low-emission vehicles in large corporate fleets, revealing a sharp split between centre-left and right-wing groups. S&D co-rapporteurs Tiemo Wölken and Thomas Pellerin-Carlin proposed a 70% zero- and low-emission share for new corporate car registrations by 2030 (54% fully electric) and 88% zero-emission by 2035, with exemptions for essential service vehicles and a mandate for member states to support second-hand markets. Pellerin-Carlin argued EVs are already cheaper over their lifecycle and proposed ending combustion-engine subsidies by 2030, while promoting EU-made vehicles and e-bikes.
EPP's R. De La Hoz Quintano pushed back, demanding technological neutrality and affordability. ECR members Jacek Ozdoba, Anna Zalewska, and C. Fidanza rejected the targets as unrealistic and harmful to industry, citing infrastructure gaps and dependence on Chinese batteries. PfE's Anne-Sophie Frigout and Roman Haider called the proposal a 'planned economy' that would increase costs for SMEs. Renew's Pascal Canfin supported the text, while Jan-Christoph Oetjen opposed regulating taxation and sought exemptions for leasing and SMEs. Greens-EFA's K. Tegethoff backed stronger second-hand market provisions.
The debate centres on a trade-off between accelerating fleet decarbonisation and protecting business competitiveness. The S&D proposal would impose significant compliance costs on large corporate fleets and leasing companies, potentially raising vehicle prices in the short term, but could lower total cost of ownership for buyers and boost second-hand EV availability. SMEs are exempted, limiting their direct impact. The automotive industry faces pressure to ramp up EV production, with risks of reliance on imported batteries. Second-hand car buyers stand to gain from increased supply of affordable EVs.
The deadline for amendments is 10 June 2026, with a committee vote expected on 4 November 2026. The outcome will shape the Parliament's position in trilogue negotiations with the Council and Commission.
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