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At this week's Transport Council meeting, Ministers reached general approaches on two major legislative proposals: the revision of the Weights & Dimensions Directive and the Roadworthiness Package. On Weights & Dimensions, the Council agreed to grant extra weight allowances for zero-emission trucks while setting a maximum weight limit of 46 tonnes. The agreement also simplifies cross-border operations for European Modular System (EMS) vehicles, allowing Member States to authorise heavier zero-emission and intermodal transport between consenting countries. CLECAT welcomes these provisions but regrets that cross-border movement of 44-tonne vehicles can be restricted to zero-emission vehicles or intermodal transport only.

The Council also adopted its position on the Roadworthiness Package, updating EU rules on vehicle inspections, registration, and market surveillance. The agreement maintains the current frequency of periodic technical inspections for all motor vehicles, including motorcycles, while strengthening roadworthiness test requirements. Notably, the compromise removes the obligation to implement remote sensing technologies for exhaust emissions and vehicle noise, leaving this decision to individual Member States. The Council also reached a compromise on odometer tampering, ensuring stricter controls while avoiding excessive administrative burden.

In addition, ministers held and exchange on ETS Maritime. Some Member States urged the Commission to adopt measures to prevent evasion strategies and to push for a global agreement at the International Maritime Organisation to ensure a level playing field. In response, Commissioner Tzitzikostas acknowledged these concerns, noting that the Commission is aware of the potential implications for the sector and is closely monitoring developments. He indicated that the Commission stands ready to consider appropriate measures should evidence emerge of negative impacts on European shipping and ports. The Commissioner also recognised the shortcomings of the initial impact assessment and signalled that further analytical work will be taken into account during the review of ETS.

Finally, a debate took place on the upcoming clean corporate fleets initiative: opinions varied widely, with some countries supporting binding targets for zero-emission vehicles in corporate fleets, while others advocated for incentive-based approaches. CLECAT has consistently emphasised the need for flexible, proportionate measures that support the logistics sector’s transition without imposing rigid mandates that could disrupt operations. The European Commission announced to adopt its Automotive Package in the coming month on 10 December, though this date may still shift.

Source: Council of the EU