New circularity rules for vehicles get European Parliament nod

Green light spans entire lifecycle of automotives in the European Union.

The European Parliament has given its final go-ahead for new circularity rules governing the European Union's automotive sector.

The new rules, which will take effect two years after formal approval by the European Council, cover the whole lifecycle of vehicles in the EU, starting from their design.

"All new vehicles must be designed so as to allow the easy removal of as many parts and components as possible," said a Parliament announcement.

"Plastics used in each new vehicle type will have to contain a minimum of 15% recycled plastic within six years and 25% within 10 years. A minimum of 20% of this recycled plastic must come from materials recovered from end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) or used parts."

Targets for other materials such as recycled steel, aluminium, and magnesium may be introduced as well.

The new EU regulation also includes rules on used vehicle sales and exportation, and on ELVs collection and treatment by car manufacturers. For instance, the export of non-roadworthy vehicles will be banned.

"We are taking important steps to boost the automotive sector's transition to a circular economy," stated co-rapporteurs Jens Gieseke and Paulius Saudargas.

"We are advancing resource security, protecting the environment, and ensuring sustainability. To avoid overburdening the sector, the new rules will introduce realistic targets, less red tape, and fairer competition."

According to EU figures, around 6.5 million vehicles in the region come to the end of their lives every year.