EU Cars Maintain CO2 Emission Levels of 12 Years Ago

Increased vehicle mass and engine power offset technological advancements, hindering progress towards 2035 zero-emissions goal.

Most passenger cars in the European Union still emit the same quantity of CO2 as 12 years ago, according to the European Union's auditing agency.
The EU's goal of a zero-emissions car fleet is largely dependent on the adoption of electric vehicles, which currently account for nearly one in seven new car registrations.
Despite technological advancements in engine efficiency, increased vehicle mass and more powerful engines have offset any potential reductions in emissions.
The transport sector accounted for 23% of the EU's total greenhouse gas emissions in 2021, with passenger cars responsible for more than half.
The EU aims to reach a zero-emissions target for new passenger cars by 2035.