Automakers call for more rigid EU infrastructure regulations

The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has published a statement praising EU member states for adopting the ACEA’s position on the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR).

Last year, the European Commission proposed the AFIR as part of its ‘Fit for 55’ climate package. In all 27 EU member states, the proposal set mandatory targets for charging outlets and hydrogen refuelling stations.

“A rapid ramp-up of charging and refuelling infrastructure is vital to decarbonise road transport,” stated Eric-Mark Huitema, ACEA’s Director-General. “We need a swift adoption of this important Regulation to send the right signal to the markets.”

The Council retained the Commission’s infrastructure targets for both light and heavy-duty vehicles as part of its “general approach.” Unfortunately, these lofty goals are insufficient to sustain a large-scale commercial adoption of zero-emission automobiles.

Huitema continued: “The Council’s position on AFIR simply does not guarantee the minimum levels of infrastructure that will be needed for vehicle manufacturers to meet their CO2 targets.”