"The proposal by European Parliament rapporteur Massimiliano Salini regarding the revision of CO₂ fleet regulations for passenger cars and vans provides important impetus for industrial and climate policy, fostering greater technological openness and necessary realism in the transformation of the automotive industry—particularly in light of global geopolitical and economic developments.

A particularly positive aspect is that Salini takes renewable fuels comprehensively into account and intends to recognize vehicles powered exclusively by such fuels as zero-emission vehicles. The EU already pledged to do this in 2023 but has not yet implemented it. The proposed adjustments to the reduction targets, as well as the planned suspension of the tightening of the so-called utility factor for plug-in hybrids, also move in the right direction. The utility factor determines the extent to which the electric driving share of plug-in hybrids is credited within the CO₂ regulatory framework. The tightening intended by the EU would place many vehicles at a regulatory disadvantage, jeopardize jobs, and hinder investment in affordable, climate-friendly mobility.

Furthermore, the proposed additional flexibilities by expanded banking and borrowing mechanisms are of significant importance. They would enable manufacturers to manage target achievement more flexibly over a multi-year period and make investments more projectable.  

Salvini’s report thus links climate protection, competitiveness, and investment security in equal measure. It is now crucial that the European Parliament and the Member States support this pragmatic approach during further consultations and swiftly give it a sound legal framework."