#truck trailers #EU regulation #CO₂ targets

German Truck Trailer Manufacturers Challenge EU Regulation

Introduction

On September 16, 2025, eight prominent manufacturers in the truck trailer industry took a significant step by filing an appeal against key articles of EU Regulation 2024/1610 at the European Court of Justice (ECJ). They expressed concern that the regulation jeopardizes not only the CO₂ reduction goals set forth by the EU but also threatens transport efficiency and over 70,000 jobs in the sector. Though the manufacturers are committed to supporting EU climate objectives, they caution against implementing impractical regulations that could lead to unintended consequences, such as increased traffic and overall emissions.

EU Regulation Overview

As part of this regulation, requirements were established to reduce CO₂ emissions for semi-trailers by 10% and other types of trailers by 7.5%. These targets are based on simulations using the Vehicle Energy Consumption Calculation Tool (VECTO-Trailer), which the manufacturers criticize for being detached from real-world operations. The financial implications could be staggering; if the manufacturers fail to meet these targets, they could face penalties of €4,250 per vehicle for each gram of CO₂ emitted per ton per kilometer as of 2030. According to calculations, such penalties could inflate trailer prices by as much as 40%, making many manufacturers' operations economically unfeasible.

Challenges of Current Simulations

Gero Schulze Isfort, spokesperson for the manufacturers' interest group, argues that a simulation tool designed to model CO₂ savings contradicts the essence of meaningful climate action. He stresses the need for practical efficiency gains within the entire transport system, rather than theoretical solutions that do not address real-world logistics. He claims, “The regulation in its current form endangers not just climate goals, but also competitive conditions and the livelihoods of over 70,000 employees.”

Economic Impact

The eight companies filing the appeal primarily consist of small to medium-sized enterprises. Unlike larger corporations, which may have more resources to manage regulatory burdens, these companies view the regulation as a direct threat to their economic viability. This could lead to substantial employment losses across the industry and its supply chain. Notably, these companies represent over 80% of annual registrations in relevant vehicle classes in Germany and about 70% across Europe.

Criticism of the VECTO Model

The manufacturers have expressed serious concerns regarding the VECTO-Trailer model’s application. It evaluates improvements in trailers based on theoretical changes like reduced height or weight, without considering how these modifications affect actual transport outcomes. The resulting outcomes, such as reduced cargo capacity and increased empty trips, would actually lead to greater CO₂ emissions.

A Call for Holistic Solutions

The manufacturers highlight that modern truck trailers already incorporate various efficiency enhancements, including lightweight construction, aerodynamic designs, and optimized rolling resistance. Instead of recognizing these tangible advancements, the regulation focuses on theoretical parameters that contradict real transportation logistics. According to Schulze Isfort,