Emissions Dispute Delays EU Decision on CO2 Regulations for Buses and Trucks

Brussels put on hold due to Berlin coalition squabbles: The decision on new CO2 emission standards for buses and trucks within the European Union, scheduled for Wednesday, has been postponed to Friday due to differences within the German federal government. Government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit announced that the voting points on the EU Commission’s plans require more extensive discussion in the responsible EU committee. Until now, it seemed that the German government coalition, consisting of SPD, Greens, and FDP, would unanimously support the new emission guidelines. However, in a surprising turn of events, the FDP is now opposing and resisting approval of the project, as first reported by the "Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung." From government circles, it was heard that the outcomes of the so-called trilogue did not meet the expectations for technology neutrality that the Federal Ministry of Transport is aiming for. There was also irritation about the EU Commission's deferral of regulations on synthetic fuels, not keeping a promise from the previous year. The plans have been met with resistance not only in Germany but also Italy, the Czech Republic, and Sweden showed reluctance, which led to the postponement of the vote. On January 18, there appeared to be agreement on tighter fleet limits, intending to set a reduction of CO2 emissions from tour buses and trucks by 90 percent by 2040 compared to 2019. At a European party convention, the FDP clearly spoke out against fleet limits and pressed for a reform, specifically to create an exemption for cars powered by E-Fuels. In Brussels, the reversal of the position is reminiscent of the discussions about a possible ban on combustion engines in new cars. These proceedings have already elicited sharp criticism of the reliability of German negotiation tactics. The German Association of the Automotive Industry urges a swift agreement, as planning security is essential for the industry. The ambitious goals call for a well-thought-out infrastructure for electric and hydrogen refueling stations – a network that is still in its infancy. Roberta Metsola, President of the EU Parliament, appeals for the reliability and integrity of agreements between legislators, without mentioning Germany. While other EU states may have learned to deal with Germany's indecisiveness, this trend poses a challenge to the EU’s voting mechanisms, as abstentions have an effect similar to dissenting votes.