On the 31 December 2012, the new European legislation called the Euro VI norm entered into force, enabling the lowering of nitrogen oxides and dust emitted from new types of trucks and buses. The legislation also introduces world-wide harmonised test procedures and standards which should help boost European automotive industry exports. In addition, EU automotive legislation will be simpler and will become effective more quickly.

The so-called Euro VI norm, which is effective from 31 December 2012 in the EU, means that nitrogen oxides and dust emitted from new types of trucks and buses will be lowered. The new legislation will also have a positive impact on industry because it introduces world-wide harmonised test procedures and standards which should help boost European automotive industry exports. In addition, EU automotive legislation is now simpler and becomes effective more quickly - directly applicable regulations have replaced directives, thus eliminating the time required for their transposition into 27 different national legislations. The “Eurovignette” law that will charge heavy-duty vehicles for air and noise pollution was adopted by the European Parliament in June 2011.

In particular, benefits of the new norms include a reduction of 80% in nitrogen oxides and 66% in particulate matter emissions, as compared to 2008 levels under the previous Euro V norms. Also, it includes the introduction of global harmonised test procedures and standards with USA equivalent emission limit values, and a positive cost benefit ratio, as proven by the impact assessment.

The new European law lays down common EU rules for pollutant emissions from heavy motor vehicles and their engines. It was developed in line with the principles of Better Regulation and following recommendations from the High Level Group for Competitive Automotive Regulatory System for the 21st century (CARS 21) and feedback from a public consultation.