Updated rules for safer roads, less air pollution and digital vehicle documents
The European Commission proposes a comprehensive update to the EUs road safety and vehicle registration directives, focusing on vehicle check-ups, registration, and roadside checks for commercial vehicles.
The existing rules are outdated due to technological advancements, pollution concerns, and road safety challenges. The new directives aim to enhance road safety and air quality, accommodating electric vehicles and technologies like advanced driver-assistance systems.
The measures include regular inspections for electric vehicles, new tests for electronic safety systems, and advanced emission testing to identify high-emitting vehicles. Annual inspections for older vehicles, which contribute significantly to emissions, are also proposed.
Citizens will be better protected against odometer fraud, and inspections will be easier for those residing temporarily in other EU countries.
Digital vehicle registration certificates will become the norm, simplifying cross-border data sharing and certificate recognition.
These changes aim to prevent 65,000 serious injuries and save 7,000 lives over 25 years. The proposals will be reviewed by the European Parliament and Council.
For more information, see the press release and questions and answers.
(For more information: Anna-Kaisa Itkonen – Tel.: +32 2 295 75 01; Anna Wartberger – Tel.: +32 2 298 25 04)
Commission takes further step to protect biodiversity in the High Seas
The Commission is proposing to integrate the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement into EU law, aiming to protect oceans and curb biodiversity loss.
Signed by President von der Leyen in 2023, this Treaty of the High Seas supports the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Frameworks goals, such as protecting 30% of oceans by 2030.
While EU law aligns with the BBNJ, the new directive aids full implementation by Member States.
More details on the integration proposal are available in our press release.
(For more information: Maciej Berestecki – Tel.: + 32 2 296 64 83; Maëlys Dreux – Tel.: +32 2 295 46 73)
Commission approves €612 million Portuguese State aid scheme to support energy-intensive companies
The European Commission has approved a €612 million Portuguese scheme to reduce electricity levies for energy-intensive companies, mitigating relocation risks outside the EU.
Beneficiaries receive levy reductions of 75%-85%, with levies remaining above €0.5/MWh. They must conduct energy audits, use renewable energy, or invest in emission-reducing projects.
Executive Vice-President Teresa Ribera highlights the schemes role in decarbonization and competitiveness.
A press release is available online.
(For more information: Thomas Regnier +32 2 299 10 99; Luuk de Klein – Tel.: +32 2 299 47 74)
Commission clears acquisition of BGPL by Actis and EDF
The European Commission has approved the acquisition of joint control of Bharat Grid Private Limited by Actis GP LLP and EDF under the EU Merger Regulation.
The transaction, related to energy services in India, poses no competition concerns in the European Economic Area.
More information is available on the Commissions competition website under case number M.11962.
(For more information : Thomas Regnier +32 2 299 10 99; Sara Simonini - Tel.: +32 2 298 33 67)
Commission clears acquisition of Verallia by BWGI
The European Commission has approved the acquisition of Verallia by BWGI under the EU Merger Regulation.
The transaction, concerning glass packaging production, poses no competition concerns.
More information is available on the Commissions competition website under case number M.11960.
(For more information : Thomas Regnier +32 2 299 10 99; Sara Simonini - Tel.: +32 2 298 33 67)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Le commissaire Serafin se rend en Roumanie et en Espagne pour son Tour dEurope
In the context of the Tour dEurope, Commissioner Serafin will visit Romania and Spain to discuss the long-term EU budget and observe how EU funds are improving lives in these countries.
In Romania, he will meet national leaders and visit EU-funded projects.
In Spain, he will meet officials and visit EU-supported projects, such as those at the University of Castilla-La Mancha.
More information about the Tour dEurope is available on a dedicated website.
(For more information : Balazs Ujvari – Tél. : +32 2 295 45 78 ; Isabel Otero Barderas – Tél. : +32 2 296 69 25)
Tentative agendas for forthcoming Commission meetings
Note that these items can be subject to changes.
Upcoming events of the European Commission
Eurostat press releases