If there was any shred of doubt before that zero-emission vehicles were the future for fleet managers and their fleets, there’s no doubting it now: the European Parliament has voted for zero-emission-only cars and light commercial vehicles by 2035.

The new legislation sets out the framework for zero CO2 emissions, reducing CO2 emissions produced by new cars and vans by 100% compared to 2021. Intermediate emissions reduction targets for 2030 have been accelerated and are set at 55% for cars and 50% for vans.

Dutch Member of the European Parliament (MEB) Jan Huitema said: “This regulation encourages the production of zero- and low-emission vehicles. It contains an ambitious revision of the targets for 2030 and a zero-emission target for 2035, which is crucial to reach climate neutrality by 2050. These targets create clarity for the car industry and stimulate innovation and investments for car manufacturers.”

Among the plans is a requirement to assess and report on the  CO2 emissions throughout the full life-cycle of cars and vans sold; and by  December 2026, the Commission will monitor the gap between published and real-world energy consumption data.

Industry body European Automobile Manufacturers Assocation (ACEA) Director General, Sigrid de Vries, greeted the announcement by saying: “Our industry is up to the challenge of providing zero-emission vehicles.” But added: “It is essential that all EU policies and regulations should align with and support this goal.”

While the EU states had previously agreed to the 100% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2035 in November, this vote in parliament ratifies the deal which will now be rubber stamped by the EU Council.