The European Parliament’s Environment Committee has voted to support easing the European Union’s carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions reduction requirements for new cars and vans, marking a proposed shift in the bloc’s approach to transport decarbonisation.

The committee adopted its position on 4 November 2026, with 48 votes in favour, 30 against and two abstentions. The proposal would give vehicle manufacturers greater flexibility in meeting emissions targets beyond 2030.

For new passenger cars, lawmakers support an 87.5% reduction in CO₂ emissions by 2035, compared with the existing 100% reduction requirement. This is also more flexible than the European Commission’s proposal for a 90% reduction. Manufacturers would be able to use credits linked to low-carbon steel produced in the EU to compensate for a limited share of remaining emissions.

The proposed changes also affect light commercial vehicles. The committee supports reducing the 2035 emissions reduction target for vans from 100% to 80%. It also proposes lowering the 2030 target from 50% to 35%, providing manufacturers with additional time and flexibility to meet the requirements.

The committee’s position includes further measures, such as incentives for certain electric vehicles manufactured in the EU and changes to the definition of zero-emission vehicles. Under the proposal, vehicles running exclusively on eligible renewable and low-carbon fuels could also qualify under specified conditions.

The move reflects growing pressure on European policymakers to balance climate objectives with the competitiveness of the automotive industry, concerns over manufacturing costs and the pace of electric vehicle adoption.

However, the committee’s vote does not make these changes law. The full European Parliament is expected to vote on its negotiating position in December 2026. Further negotiations with EU Member States will be required before any revised requirements can be formally adopted.