The new EU rules enter into force on Wednesday, introducing stricter requirements for the design, production, collection and management of vehicles at the end of their life.
Boosting recycling and material recovery
The rules aim to strengthen circularity in the automotive industry and improve the recovery of raw materials such as steel, aluminium, copper and plastics.
Between 10 million and 12 million vehicles become waste in Europe every year. The European Commission estimates that inadequate management of end-of-life vehicles causes environmental problems and results in the loss of millions of tonnes of valuable materials.
The vehicle rules introduce the bloc’s first binding targets for recycled plastic content in vehicles, requiring 15% from 2032 and 25% from 2036.
The Commission is also expected to set corresponding targets for recycled steel and aluminium, which will apply from 2033.
New requirements for manufacturers
Manufacturers will be required to provide clear instructions for removing and replacing components, making vehicles easier to dismantle and recycle.
Producer responsibility will also be strengthened, with manufacturers required to finance the collection and processing of end-of-life vehicles.
From mid-2031, exports outside the EU will be permitted only for vehicles that are in a roadworthy condition. The measure is intended to prevent unusable vehicles from being exported under the guise of used cars.
Rules extended to more vehicles
The rules will also expand their scope to cover trucks, buses and motorcycles, alongside passenger vehicles.
Also read: 22-year-old woman succumbs to injuries after crash
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
