The EU has passed regulations that should ensure new vehicles are designed and produced to support their re-use, recycling and recovery, and make the automotive sector more circular and sustainable.

The new regulations introduce circularity requirements across the entire life cycle of vehicles. After six years following entry into force of the new rules, at least 15 per cent of plastic used to manufacture new vehicles must come from recycling, with the ultimate target of 25 per cent recycled plastic within 10 years of the regulation entering into force. Furthermore, a minimum of 20 per cent of this recycled plastic must be recovered from end-of-life vehicles.

Vehicles must also be designed to allow the easy and systematic removal of parts and components.

The new regulation will fully apply to passenger cars and light commercial vans, whereas heavy-duty vehicles, motorcycles and special purpose vehicles (both small and heavy-duty) will be subject to a more limited set of requirements which will especially ensure their proper treatment.

This regulation builds on the European Green Deal and the circular economy action plan, promoting sustainable practices throughout the automotive value chain.

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