EU countries approve law to slash trucks' CO2 emissions

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🗞️ Driving the news: European Union countries have finalized a law targeting a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions from new heavy-duty vehicles by 2040
• This ambitious policy mandates that most trucks sold by that year be emissions-free, utilizing technologies like electric or hydrogen fuel power

🔭 The context: The regulation updates previous goals, setting new targets for CO2 emissions reductions of 45% by 2030 and 65% by 2035 compared to a baseline year
• The law also includes specific provisions for urban buses, requiring 90% of new buses to be zero-emissions by 2030 and 100% by 2035

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Trucks, predominantly diesel-powered, are major contributors to air pollution and greenhouse gases in Europe, accounting for a quarter of road transport emissions
• This law represents a critical step in mitigating environmental and health impacts associated with heavy-duty road transport

⏭️ What's next: The law's implementation will require significant infrastructure development, including the deployment of 50,000 truck-suitable electric charging points by 2030 as outlined by the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA)
• This setup aims to support the transition to a greener heavy vehicle fleet across Europe

💬 One quote: "This policy sets the world's most ambitious targets," said a representative from the European autos group ACEA

📈 One stat: Trucks are responsible for 25% of Europe’s road transport emissions

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