#Germany #Berlin #truck trailers #EU regulation #CO₂ Goals

Legal Challenge Against EU CO₂ Regulations

In a significant move, eight leading German truck trailer manufacturers have filed a legal appeal against the European Union's (EU) new CO₂ emissions regulations for trailers, citing serious concerns about economic viability and the practical implications of the policies. The group argues that the proposed regulations could jeopardize over 70,000 jobs in the sector and ultimately harm the very climate goals they aim to uphold.

Background of the Regulation

The contested Regulation (EU) 2024/1610 sets binding CO₂ reduction targets not only for trucks but also for their trailers. These targets mandate a 10% reduction in CO₂ emissions for semi-trailers and a 7.5% reduction for other types by July 1, 2024. The calculations are based on the Vehicle Energy Consumption Calculation Tool, known as VECTO-Trailer, which the manufacturers argue overstates potential emissions savings while neglecting the realities of logistics and transport inefficiencies.

Economic Impact and Job Threats

The manufacturers, which include companies such as Fliegl Fahrzeugbau GmbH and Schmitz Cargobull AG, emphasized that the penalties for not meeting these CO₂ targets could lead to an increase of up to 40% in trailer prices. This drastic price hike would make it financially untenable for many, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to operate in a competitive market. Gero Schulze Isfort, the spokesperson for the group, stated, "We need realistic efficiency improvements across the entire transport system, not fictitious solutions that are disconnected from reality."

Criticism of VECTO-Trailer

The VECTO-Trailer tool has come under heavy criticism for its methodology. Critics argue it considers theoretical improvements—such as reduced trailer height or weight—without accounting for the practical implications these changes have on transport dynamics. In reality, such modifications can lead to lower payload capacities and increased empty runs, conditions that could ultimately raise vehicular emissions instead of reducing them.

Need for an Integral Approach

The manufacturers assert that the current regulation fails to recognize the significant advancements already made in trailer technology, such as lightweight construction, aerodynamics, and innovative axle systems that enhance transport efficiency. It overlooks the fact that holistic efficiency improvements throughout the supply chain are essential for achieving substantial CO₂ reductions. Isfort expressed the need for an integrated framework, stating, "Climate protection requires a comprehensive approach. Only by enhancing efficiency across the entire transportation chain can we achieve real CO₂ savings."

Proposed Solutions

To avoid extensive economic damage and secure jobs in the industry, the manufacturers are calling for several changes to the current regulations:

1. Abolish the VECTO-Trailer Tool: They demand the removal of the simulation tool, arguing it does not reflect real-world efficiencies.
2. Moratorium on Penalties: They advocate for a pause on CO₂ penalties until feasible targets can be established based on sound technical grounds.
3. Inclusion of Emission-Free Tractors: They suggest that the emissions from zero-emission tractors should also be factored into the CO₂ targets for trailers.

This coalition, representing a significant majority of the trailer registrations in Germany and Europe, is committed to meeting climate goals but insists that these goals must be economically viable and technically feasible.

Industry Support and Concerns

The German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) echoes these concerns, stating that the CO₂ targets proposed in the current form could threaten most trailer manufacturers in Germany and Europe. Without amendments to this regulation, the industry risks facing severe economic repercussions and a detrimental impact on employment.

As the legal appeals process unfolds, the implications of these regulations for the future of the trucking and logistics industry remain to be seen, but the stakes are undeniably high.