Auto sector stresses importance of comprehensive, technology-neutral approach to transport emissions
Brussels, 24 October 2014 – Following last night’s agreement by the European Council on the 2030 Climate and Energy Policy package, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), welcomes the fact that the framework calls for a comprehensive and technology-neutral approach to transport-related emissions.
ACEA has long argued that a technologically-neutral approach is the most effective way of ensuring practical carbon-reduction technologies make it to the road, and that all transport modes must contribute equally to achieving the EU’s climate objectives.
In setting a target for a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of at least 40% by 2030 based on 1990 levels, the EU has set itself ambitious goals. ACEA appreciates that policy makers have chosen to emphasise cost-effectiveness in achieving its overall target, and stresses the need to balance environmental sustainability with competitiveness. Ensuring that Europe remains economically successful is the best way of guaranteeing that investment in climate-improving technologies continues.
Speaking after the agreement, ACEA Secretary General Erik Jonnaert said, “Europe’s cars, vans, trucks and buses currently have the highest environmental standards in the world. Our industry is committed to contributing its fair share towards lowering greenhouse gas emissions, namely through more fuel-efficient technology and continuing its investments into more alternative powertrains.
About ACEA
- The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) represents the 14 major Europe-based car, van, truck and bus makers: BMW Group, DAF Trucks, Daimler Truck, Ferrari, Ford of Europe, Honda Motor Europe, Hyundai Motor Europe, Iveco Group, Jaguar Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Renault Group, Toyota Motor Europe, Volkswagen Group, and Volvo Group.
- Visit www.acea.auto for more information about ACEA, and follow us on www.twitter.com/ACEA_auto or www.linkedin.com/company/ACEA/.
- Contact: Cara McLaughlin, Communications Director, cm@acea.auto, +32 485 88 66 47.
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About the EU automobile industry
- 13.0 million Europeans work in the automotive sector
- 11.5% of all manufacturing jobs in the EU
- €374.6 billion in tax revenue for European governments
- €79.5 billion trade surplus for the European Union
- Almost 8% of EU GDP generated by the auto industry
- €58.8 billion in R&D spending annually, 32% of EU total
