TRANSPORT – EESC URGES THE COMMISSION TO MAINTAIN A CLEAR SIGNAL FOR ZERO AND LOW-EMISSION CORPORATE VEHICLES

The EESC urges the European Commission to maintain a clear and credible long-term signal in favour of zero-emission vehicles. At the same time, when used primarily in an electric mode, low-emissions vehicles can act as a short and mid-term enabler of alternative fuel infrastructure and support industrial adaptation.

In the opinion adopted at the March plenary session and drawn up by Corina Murafa Benga, the Committee assesses the European Commission’s proposal on Clean Corporate Vehicles. 

In the EESC’s view, the proposed Regulation should prioritise zero-emission vehicles but also recognise the transitional role which low-emission vehicles can play by supporting industrial adaptation in the short and medium term, preserving quality jobs and maintaining the European automotive sector’s competitiveness. 

This approach provides companies and workers with the time needed to invest, innovate and reskill, facilitating an orderly transition towards full electrification while safeguarding Europe’s industrial and social fabric.

The EESC takes note of the proposed EU-wide, demand-side approach to clean corporate vehicles. However, it underlines that national targets should not be lower than what the market is already delivering, must not turn into company-based targets when the Regulation is introduced, and must be accompanied by an effective roll-out of supporting charging infrastructure and adequate capacity of the electricity grids, to safeguard business competitiveness.

The Committee also calls on Member States to consider tax incentives for decarbonising corporate fleets, including by removing direct and indirect advantages for fossil-fuel company cars.

National tax frameworks for corporate vehicles remain one of the most powerful demand-side levers. Aligning company car taxation, benefit-in-kind rules and depreciation schemes with the Regulation’s objectives can speed up purchasing decisions, influence vehicle use patterns and support timely fleet renewal. (mp)