CLEPA | CO2 standards require rigorous feasibility check and tech-neutral approach

CLEPA, the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, welcomes the European Parliament’s support of the Commission’s targeted amendment to the CO2 standards for cars and vans, aimed at providing vehicle manufacturers with greater flexibility to meet 2025 emission targets.

in CLEPA, 08-05-2025


The introduction of an averaging mechanism for emissions reduction is an urgent and necessary step. However, this measure must not overshadow the broader structural shortcomings of the CO2 Regulation, which affect the entire automotive sector. The current framework remains misaligned with market realities and is overly prescriptive in its technological approach, hindering innovation and progress toward effective decarbonisation.

“Short-term measures must align with a broader, technology-neutral ambition. A critical discussion on the feasibility of current CO2 Regulation is needed, aligned with real-world conditions. Competitiveness depends on a feasible transition. Diverse technological solutions —hybrid, battery-electric, and CO2-neutral fuels must all have a place at the table,” said Benjamin Krieger, CLEPA Secretary General.

As high-level discussions continue in Brussels, Europe’s automotive suppliers are confronting growing challenges on the ground. According to the latest CLEPA-McKinsey Pulse Check, 62% of the industry cite overcapacity and high fixed costs, factors that significantly increase the risk of further downsizing and job losses. Without urgent support, the EU may undermine the very industry needed to implement its Green Deal goals.

“While the ambitions were politically bold, we must now reassess the technical and economic feasibility of the CO2 Regulations to ensure they are both realistic and centred on people.

Europe must move decisively with smart, targeted measures to remain globally competitive in an uncertain world. A key priority is maintaining the Utility Factor for plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) to protect high-value European jobs and provide urgent relief.

At the same time, CO2 rules must be updated to reflect current market realities and support all low-carbon technologies. Cutting red tape through the Simplification Omnibus can also enhance resilience – promoting competitiveness, not protectionism, while safeguarding Europe’s strategic industrial base,” stated Benjamin Krieger.

As the EU’s Strategic Dialogue on the future of the European Automotive Industry moves forward, CLEPA urges the European Commission not to lose momentum or delay action.

“The Commission pledged to deliver on technology neutrality, yet we see little progress and time is running out. Thousands of jobs are at risk in a time of deep uncertainty. We urgently need a clear and credible signal that Europe is serious about supporting its industry and leading a realistic green transition,” concluded Benjamin Krieger.

Immediate and long-term actions needed

To ensure a balanced, consumer-oriented, and effective transition to clean mobility, CLEPA urges policymakers to take decisive action:

  1. Short-term measure: Maintain the 2024 Utility Factor for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in the Type-Approval regulation to safeguard their role in reducing emissions.
  2. Long-term vision: Conduct a substantial revision of the CO2 regulations by the end of the year, ensuring a strong, technology-neutral framework to support the clean transition towards 2035. Introduce clear legal requirements and explicitly recognise “vehicles running exclusively on CO2-neutral fuels” in the regulatory framework.

CLEPA | As the need for EU industrial capacity grows, dwindling profitability could force auto suppliers out

If economic reality on the ground continues to worsen, suppliers may not just trim operations – they may be pushed across the breaking point. And that is not just an economic problem. It’s a strategic one.

in CLEPA, by Benjamin Krieger, 16-04-2025


2025 has not exactly started with a bang for Europe’s automotive suppliers – unless you’re counting the sound of quickly evaporating optimism. CLEPA’s latest survey shows the most severe job losses since the COVID-19 pandemic, with business sentiment hitting a historic low in 2025. Nearly 60% of suppliers report negative impacts from geopolitical instability, and an alarming 42% see no path to profitability this year. It’s the kind of forecast that should give policymakers pause, although the growing trade war coming from the US may limit the time to reflect.

Europe needs a robust and competitive industrial base more than ever. Calls for strategic autonomy, demands in the defence sector and the desire for more localised supply chains are growing louder. But if the economic reality on the ground continues to worsen, suppliers may not just trim operations – they may be pushed across the breaking point. And that is not just an economic problem. It’s a strategic one.

Strategic drift: When industry becomes a security issue

Losing key suppliers costs jobs; compromises Europe’s capacity for innovation, weakens its resilience, and increases dependency on non-EU actors. Automotive suppliers hold crucial technologies for European competitiveness, but their know-how can also be used in other industries. At a time when the European Commission is launching initiatives like the “ReArm” program to revamp EU security policy, letting high-tech industrial capabilities slip through our fingers seems a bit like trying to build a secure fortress while handing out the blueprints.

Technology neutrality: A principle, not a footnote

The Commission’s Industrial Action Plan for the Automotive Sector arrived not a moment too soon. The Council’s conclusions on 20 March underlined the urgent need for a technology-neutral path forward, one that promotes innovation rather than dictating it. CLEPA supports this direction, but let’s be candid: policy timelines need to better match industry timelines.

We need enduring clarity that technology neutrality isn’t just a phrase of the month, but a principle that will guide investment decisions well beyond 2035. Clean mobility includes more than just electrification, and Europe should not handicap itself by backing a single horse in a global race.

Protecting value chains without building walls

What Europe needs is a smart industrial strategy – one that protects value creation at home without closing the doors to global cooperation. This includes targeted support for innovation, measures to stimulate demand, and trade defence tools where necessary. With over 3,000 automotive suppliers in Europe, many of them SMEs, flexibility is not a luxury. It’s a question of survival.

Decisive action starts at home

We all agree on the direction: smarter, safer, and more sustainable mobility. But let’s not pretend we can drive this transformation with a flat tyre. Without viable business models and policies that keep industrial capacity in Europe, we risk trading long-term prosperity for short-term applause.

For example, any retaliation against the US tariffs must not affect imports of car parts that are difficult to substitute locally, such as certain semiconductor materials. Overall, the measures identified should not remove the options for reaching new agreements with our trading partners. Global trade cannot only be seen politically.

Europe must act now with smart, targeted measures to stay competitive in an uncertain world. Maintaining the Utility Factor for PHEVs is a vital first step to protect high-value EU jobs and offering immediate support to the sector. We must also update CO? rules to match today’s market and back all low-carbon solutions. Cutting red tape through the Simplification Omnibus will also boost resilience, not protectionism, ensuring Europe retains its strategic edge and industrial base.

2025 looks to become a pivotal year – policymakers and industry need to align their speed and direction. CLEPA and its members are ready to work closely with EU institutions to co-create solutions that are economically grounded, strategically sound, and globally competitive.

Because if we’ve learned anything in recent years, it’s that resilience isn’t built by chance. It’s built by choice.

Benjamin Krieger

Secretary General CLEPA


CLEPA | Automotive suppliers face a double impact from U.S. tariffs on both vehicles and car parts

A negotiated solution with the U.S. must be the priority to avoid unintended retaliation on critical imports

in CLEPA, 07-04-2025


In the context of the Strategic Dialogue on the future of the automotive industry, automotive suppliers, including representatives from Bosch, Valeo, and CLEPA, emphasised the urgent need for a balanced and forward-looking transatlantic trade relationship during a high-level meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Representing a vital pillar of Europe’s industrial base, suppliers underlined the ripple effects of recent U.S. tariffs on automotive, steel, and aluminium exports—not just for vehicle manufacturers but across the entire supply chain.

Benjamin Krieger, Secretary General of CLEPA said:

“Tariffs imposed by the Trump administration are a significant threat to the EU automotive supply industry, endangering €13.9 billion in exports to the US and up to 125,000 EU jobs. Automotive suppliers are even more exposed than manufacturers, as lower exports of vehicles will hurt them, and further tariffs on car parts are expected in May. While we support a measured EU response, a negotiated solution with the U.S. must be the priority to avoid unintended retaliation on critical imports—such as specialised plastics, semiconductor inputs, and high-grade steels—that are hard to replace.

We can’t control global trade policy—but we can shape our own policy response. Now is the time to focus on what’s within our reach: smart, targeted action at home that strengthens Europe’s position in an uncertain world. Maintaining the Utility Factor for PHEVs is a crucial first step as their high EU value add can help safeguard thousands of jobs. It’s an immediate lifeline we can throw to the sector. We also need to adjust the CO2 regulation to reflect the reality of today’s market and support all low-carbon technologies. Moreover, cutting the bureaucratic red tape through the Simplification Omnibus approach and accelerating trade agreements with Mercosur and Mexico would reinforce Europe’s competitive edge, ensuring we hold on to our strategic know-how and keep production on our shores. This isn’t protectionism—it’s about safeguarding resilience for the long haul.”


CLEPA | Bold EU action required to counter US tariffs threatening automotive suppliers

As a reaction to the US tariffs, including a 25% lever directed at imported European cars, CLEPA stresses that the measures from the Trump administration negatively affect automotive suppliers and trade relations on both sides of the Atlantic. The association calls on European institutions to respond with unity and determination to safeguard the EU’s economy.

in CLEPA, 03-04-2025


In addition to the tariffs on aluminium and steel taking effect today, tariffs on automotive parts are expected on 3 May 2025. EU automotive suppliers could face further impact from potential retaliation measures on certain US-sourced products. EU trade ministers will meet on Monday, 6 April, with a possible vote on a first set of retaliation measures as early as Tuesday. These measures would take effect on 16 April in response to the US Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminium.

Benjamin Krieger, CLEPA Secretary General, said:

“With EU suppliers driving a third of foreign direct investment in the US, transatlantic trade ties run deep. But Trump’s tariffs are delivering a heavy blow—not just in Europe but also across North American operations, where EU-made components power vehicles exported to the US. For an industry already on edge, this escalation adds further strain.

The EU must respond with unity and strength. The aim: to create the right conditions for a fair deal with the US. It must also show real commitment to diversification by advancing trade agreements, starting with Mercosur and Mexico. Finally,?we must get competitive again—cut red tape, lower?energy?cost, reduce the regulatory?burden and strategically stimulate local demand?to safeguard essential know-how and technological leadership. A well-calibrated response now will shape Europe’s economic position for years to come.”


CLEPA Press release | CO2 standards: Short-term gains must align with technology-neutral ambition

CLEPA, the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, acknowledges the European Commission’s latest amendment to the CO2 standards for cars and vans. While the introduction of an averaging mechanism for emissions reduction is a positive step, CLEPA emphasises that short-term measures must be part of a broader technology-neutral ambition. A market-aligned and feasible transition requires diverse technological solutions.

in CLEPA, 02-04-2025


A call for a multi-pathway approach

“While the EU rightly pursues climate neutrality, we must acknowledge that consumers and markets are signaling a strong preference for a diverse mix of technologies. True progress means embracing all viable solutions—whether hybrid, electric, or CO2-neutral fuels—on equal footing under a technology-neutral framework. Demand for hybrid vehicles is rising in key markets like China and the U.S., while interest in battery electric vehicles has stagnated. Increasing technology choices will support certainty” said Benjamin Krieger, CLEPA’s Secretary General.

A recent Deloitte study reinforces this shift, showing declining demand for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in China, the U.S., India, Korea, and Japan, while hybrid solutions are gaining traction as a pragmatic alternative. “Hybrids are proving to be a ‘best of both worlds’ solution—reducing emissions and fuel consumption without the constraints of charging infrastructure,” added Benjamin Krieger. “Europe’s automotive suppliers stand ready to innovate, but we need a regulatory environment that supports all viable technologies. The Commission must send a clear signal that technology neutrality is a priority.”

Immediate and long-term actions needed

To ensure a balanced, consumer-oriented, and effective transition to clean mobility, CLEPA urges policymakers to take decisive action:

  1. Short-term measure: Maintain the 2024 Utility Factor for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in the Type-Approval regulation to safeguard their role in reducing emissions.
  2. Long-term vision: Conduct a substantial revision of the CO2 regulations by the end of the year, ensuring a strong, technology-neutral framework to support the clean transition towards 2035. Introduce clear legal requirements and explicitly recognise “vehicles running exclusively on CO2-neutral fuels” in the regulatory framework.

 

 


 

CLEPA | US tariffs on European cars: A step back for global automotive trade

In response to the Trump administration’s announcement of a 25% tariff on European car imports to the US, CLEPA calls on policymakers to prioritise solutions over trade barriers. Regulatory cooperation and mutual standards would enhance competitiveness on both sides of the Atlantic.

in CLEPA, 27-03-2025


The transatlantic automotive supply chain is deeply interwoven, supporting thousands of businesses and jobs across Europe and North America. Protectionist tariffs threaten to unravel this long-standing partnership, disrupting the flow of goods, increasing production costs, and ultimately driving up car prices for consumers

Matthias Zink, CLEPA President, stated:

“The United States’ decision to impose a 25% tariff on non-U.S. passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, effective 2 April, is misguided and harmful for everyone – including the U.S. itself.

Modern vehicle manufacturing is not confined to national borders. Components often cross borders multiple times before final assembly – whether in the USA or the EU. Automotive transatlantic value chains today are deeply interwoven.

These protectionist tariffs risk breaking apart a trading partnership built over decades — one that supports thousands of businesses and thousands of jobs across both Europe and North America.

Tariffs of this scale will disrupt the flow of goods, raise production costs, and ultimately make cars more expensive for consumers — including in the United States. I can only repeat: This is not just a European problem. It’s a threat to the economic and industrial resilience of the western world.

We urge policymakers to focus on solutions, not trade barriers. A forward-looking agreement between the EU and the U.S. on regulatory cooperation and mutual standards would strengthen competitiveness on both sides of the Atlantic. Protectionism only delays progress — collaboration drives it.“

CLEPA | Loss of EU competitiveness, geopolitical uncertainty and imports from China continue to suppress supplier sentiment

The European automotive supply industry is bracing for a turbulent year ahead, as the latest industry survey reveals 42% of suppliers think they won’t be profitable in 2025.

in CLEPA, 27-03-205


New insights from CLEPA and McKinsey’s bi-annual survey, with input from 120 companies, shed light on the industry’s business climate, key trends, and pressing challenges:

  • A deepening sense of uncertainty: 63% of suppliers express a negative outlook, a significant decline in overall industry sentiment.
  • Squeezed profitability: 75% of suppliers expect continued low profits, with 42% expecting to operate at break-even or face losses in 2025.
  • Intensifying global competition: 57% report increasing pressure from Chinese component imports.

Uncertainty and profitability pressures

At the heart of these concerns is the uncertainty surrounding new projects and electric vehicles (EV) demand in Europe. Vehicle manufacturers (OEMs) are pressing suppliers to cut costs, while the European market struggles to maintain its competitive edge.

As a result, profitability projections paint a bleak picture: 42% of suppliers now anticipate operating at marginal or negative profitability levels, a rise from 35% just six months ago. Only one in four suppliers expect profitability above 5%, a downturn from previous forecasts.

Benjamin Krieger, CLEPA’s Secretary General, underscores the sector’s concerns, stating: “This is not the time to downplay the challenges. Suppliers are grappling with shrinking margins and a lack of investments. Three quarters of our industry are now operating at low profitability levels. Delays in policy action will make the situation more severe. We need to shift Action Plan discussions to concrete steps, ensuring an effective implementation of technology neutrality, and fostering an innovation-friendly environment. If we fail to act now, Europe risks being remembered not for the powerful industry it built, but for the one it lost to other regions.”

Declining production volumes threaten jobs and investments

The survey also highlights a worrying decline in production volumes, with 62% of suppliers struggling to keep their plants sufficiently utilised. One in four suppliers report that most of their plants are running below capacity, forcing tough decisions on restructuring.

Looking ahead to the midterm (2025-2030), 37% of suppliers foresee a need to reduce the number of plants to adjust for declining production volumes, up significantly from 24% a year ago. This looming contraction threatens jobs, innovation, and long-term investment in the sector.

Additionally, 33% of suppliers warn that bankruptcies among smaller Tier 2 suppliers, as well as suppliers exiting the automotive business will have a strong impact on their operations, up sharply from 20% last year.

Main strategic challenges: the battle for competitiveness

Decreasing competitiveness is mentioned by 72% of suppliers as one of their main strategic challenges. 71% report significant difficulties in passing on rising costs to OEMs, while 69% identifies demand unpredictability as a major challenge.

Automotive suppliers, as intermediaries in the supply chain, are the first to absorb cost pressures and face difficulties negotiating price adjustments with OEMs. While some contracts include indexation clauses, many do not, forcing suppliers into complex negotiations.

Additionally, geopolitical instability is creating further headwinds. 58% of suppliers cite rising global tensions as a major concern. 58% of suppliers identifies geopolitical instability as having a severe impact on their business. In particular, Trump’s tariffs threaten to heavily affect EU automotive suppliers, both in their European as in their North American business. Only 19% of suppliers indicate that they can pass on the cost of tariffs to their OEM customers, while 54% will be required to negotiate contracts with OEMs.

How can European suppliers stay competitive?

Automotive suppliers identify three major levers to improve EU competitiveness: access to affordable energy (65%), competitive labour costs and productivity (59%) and a competitive technology offering (43%). Other factors include availability of critical raw materials and talent, as well as improvement of the regulatory environment and access to capital.

Suppliers identify their advanced technological expertise and innovation capacity (62%) as well as the power of their brand and trust (50%) as their main assets over Chinese competitors. Additionally, 41% of suppliers highlight their deep experience with regulatory compliance as a strength in an increasingly complex market.

CLEPA | Need to keep momentum: EU’s Automotive Action Plan charts positive first steps, but misses addressing crucial needs of the supplier industry

  • European Commission suggests earlier review of the CO2 regulations for fleets
  • Action Plan commits to a legislative proposal on access to in-vehicle data if the Data Act proves insufficient
  • Suppliers require urgent action to secure jobs and innovation

in CLEPA, 05-03-2025


The European Commission’s newly published Industrial Action Plan for the European Automotive Sector sets a framework for the industry’s future at a critical juncture, as Europe’s automotive supplier sector faces alarming challenges—including the announcement of 54,000 job losses in 2024 alone. While CLEPA welcomes the Commission’s initiative, key questions remain unanswered, and the urgency of the situation demands swift and concrete action.

CLEPA welcomes the suggestion by Commissioner Tzitzikostas at today’s press conference that the review of the CO2 regulations will start in 2025, rather than 2026 as foreseen in the regulation and to do so based on a technology-neutral approach. However, the text of the Action Plan does not contain concrete commitments.

“Limited relief on compliance is important. The crucial question remains: How will technology neutrality be implemented in practice? To sustain competitiveness and preserve jobs, the EU must embrace a diverse portfolio of sustainable technologies—including plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), range extenders, hydrogen, and renewable fuels. We are keen to contribute to the next steps, with ‘full technology neutrality as a core principle’, as announced by Commission President von der Leyen recently. These must include a clear and lasting role for clean mobility technologies that complement electrification up until 2035 and beyond,” said CLEPA Secretary General Benjamin Krieger.

Automotive suppliers acknowledge progress on digitalisation. A key driver of suppliers’ continued growth is fair access to in-vehicle data, which is needed for advancing engineering, unlocking new services, and fostering data-driven innovation. After more than eight years of discussion, the Commission’s Action Plan pledges to introduce a legislative proposal to unlock the potential of the data economy and ensure access for all mobility ecosystem players. “The Commission’s commitment to a framework for vehicle data sharing is a significant step forward. However, delays risk stalling investments and slowing progress at a time when speed is critical. If the Guidelines prove insufficient, additional regulation will be essential,” said Benjamin Krieger.

Equally important for the continued growth of the automotive aftermarket, CLEPA welcomes renewed efforts on the Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation. The Commission acknowledges elements undermining competition in the automotive sector and the need to adapt the regulation to the current challenges of the digital environment.

The push for a single market for autonomous vehicles, a key CLEPA request, is a significant step forward, but greater ambition is needed. CLEPA urges the swift adoption of regulation and a clear timeline for type-approving unlimited series of fully autonomous vehicles. A harmonised approach is crucial for timely deployment, cost reduction, flexible testing procedures, and the development of necessary digital infrastructure.

Securing Europe’s role in all critical automotive technologies without creating distortion in the market remains key, and the EU must urgently consider policy measures that safeguard European value creation and overall competitiveness—whether through targeted funding, demand-side incentives, or trade defence instruments. The goal should be a level playing field for competition while preserving the advantages of production at scale and a globally connected supply chain. More than 3,000 companies—many of them small and medium-sized enterprises—depend on this flexibility to thrive in Europe.

In recent weeks, CLEPA and its members have actively engaged with European Commissioners, presenting practical, solution-driven strategies to steer the sector toward recovery. With work strand meetings planned until the summer, suppliers will continue to push for urgent action. The stakes are too high—Europe’s automotive workforce and industrial future depend on bold, decisive policies that move beyond rhetoric and into action.

 

ACEA / CLEPA | Only with the right framework will Automotive Action Plan unleash thriving industry delivering zero-emissions

Auto makers and suppliers recognise the collective efforts of the Strategic Dialogue, but no time to waste to safeguard competitiveness.

in ACEA / CLEPA, 03-03-2025


European vehicle manufacturers and automotive suppliers invested hundreds of billions of euros and are committed to making zero-emission mobility a successful business model. The urgency to act is there: the market for zero-emission vehicles is not picking up fast enough. The transition can only work if coupled with immediate ambitious actions to boost infrastructure, demand incentives and measures to reduce manufacturing costs.

Today’s discussion on a more pragmatic approach for decarbonisation based on the principle of technology neutrality recognises the need for a reality check for this transition to succeed. Proposed penalty relief for 2025 targets for cars and vans is a first step in the right direction, and more support for autonomous vehicles and European battery supply chain are also positive signs. However, the truck and bus industry’s unique role and challenges still need appropriate recognition.

Ola Källenius, President of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) and CEO of Mercedes-Benz: “This Strategic Dialogue comes at precisely the right moment. The transformation of our automotive industry is in full swing, and now we must define a framework that ensures the EU’s competitiveness in this critical sector. The transition to zero emission mobility and a thriving EU automotive industry must progress together—this is non-negotiable. We appreciate the focus on accelerating autonomous driving deployment and the proposed CO2 relief measures for 2025 for passenger cars and vans. But let me be clear about our primary concern: how do we chart the course to 2035 with the necessary flexibility and pragmatism to make this transition work? This is the fundamental question we would like to address with Commission President during the next Strategic Dialogue meeting.”

Matthias Zink, President of the European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA): “Suppliers, alongside vehicle manufacturers, are driving the decarbonisation of the automotive sector—and we will make it happen. But, greater flexibility is essential to ensure that the transition is both ambitious and realistically achievable,” says Zink. “A crucial question remains unanswered: How can we establish a technology-open regulatory framework that enables solutions like PHEVs and range extenders beyond 2035? This must be a key element of the Automotive Action Plan and a fundamental part of the CO2 regulation’s revision. More than 3,000 companies—many of them small and medium-sized enterprises—depend on this flexibility to thrive in Europe.”

Christian Levin, Chairperson of the ACEA Commercial Vehicle Board and CEO of Scania: “We have less than five years left to go from 2% to 35% market share with almost none of the necessary enabling conditions in place today. It is essential that the upcoming Action Plan for the Automotive Industry includes an accelerated review of CO2 standards for heavy-duty vehicles to 2025 based on an urgent assessment of enabling conditions. Trucks and buses are the backbone of Europe’s economy, essential to daily life for millions of citizens and businesses. But to accelerate their transition to climate neutrality, much greater emphasis must be given to deploying critical infrastructure, ensuring cost parity, and boosting demand for zero-emission trucks and buses.”

Vehicle manufacturers and automotive suppliers reiterated the joint call for the following priority issues to be addressed as a matter of priority:

  1. Accelerate the reviews of the CO2 Regulations for cars and vans and heavy-duty vehicles to 2025, including an urgent assessment of the sector’s enabling conditions.
  2. Ambitious measures to tackle insufficient enabling conditions that slow down transformation: The industry needs to see increased AFIR targets, purchase and fiscal incentives to boost mass adoption of zero-emission vehicles and specific set of measures to stimulate demand for the heavy-duty vehicles segment tackling the total cost of ownership.
  3. Maintain technology openness: In the face of global competition and dependency on battery technology controlled by other regions, maintaining flexibility for all technologies, including PHEVs, range extenders, hydrogen and other climate-neutral solutions, is crucial for Europe’s resilience and strategic autonomy.
  4. Trade and partnerships with other regions: Ensure a balanced trade policy that levels the playing field with global competitors that both safeguards European added value and maintains the benefits of a globally connected supply chain. Secure access to funding for the automotive supply chain to enable global competitiveness in critical automotive technologies.

The auto industry acknowledges the collective efforts of the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Commissioners Tzitzikostas, Séjourné, Minzatu, Virkkunen and Hoekstra for engaging with our sector at this critical juncture. We look forward to working with them to deliver on the Action Plan.

COMUNICADO DE IMPRENSA | #TheRoadAhead: A ambição de sustentabilidade dos fornecedores da indústria automóvel requer uma regulação favorável à inovação

CLEPA, a associação europeia de fornecedores da indústria automóvel, desvendou o seu Manifesto para a Sustentabilidade, um roteiro geral que descreve como a indústria e os reguladores poderão, em conjunto, permitir a transição da indústria para a neutralidade climática, para a circularidade, para o abastecimento responsável e resiliente, e ainda para garantir uma transição justa para trabalhadores e comunidades em geral. A AFIA, como Associada da CLEPA, participou no grupo de trabalho para a elaboração do Manifesto para a Sustentabilidade.

in CLEPA / AFIA, 25-02-2025

Como pilar do setor automóvel, os fornecedores são essenciais na busca de uma inovação sustentável que permita reduzir emissões de carbono e garantir cadeias de abastecimento responsáveis. O Manifesto para a Sustentabilidade da CLEPA delineia quatro pilares fundamentais que irão moldar o futuro da indústria europeia: Ação Climática, Economia Circular, Cadeia de Abastecimento Responsável e Transição Justa. O Manifesto também estabelece alguns objetivos importantes, incluindo:

  • Ação Climática: Tentar atingir a neutralidade climática na produção europeia até 2040 (Emissões de âmbito 1 e 2)
  • Economia Circular: Partindo do sucesso do setor na remanufactura, procurar aumentar a quantidade de componentes provenientes de economia circular, procurando atingir os objetivos da UE de fornecer 25% da matéria-prima crítica através da reciclagem e de alcançar os zero resíduos para aterro.  
  • Cadeia de Abastecimento Responsável: Tentar reduzir dependências nos fornecimentos e colaborar para minimizar impactos adversos ao nível dos direitos humanos e do ambiente nas nossas cadeias de abastecimento. 
  • Transição Justa: Conseguir ter 5% dos trabalhadores a participar anualmente em processos de requalificação ou de desenvolvimento de competências até 2030.

Os fornecedores europeus da indústria automóvel já têm feito progressos. Os 29 maiores fornecedores reduziram, em conjunto, as emissões de CO? em 8,4% (âmbito 1 e 2) entre 2022 e 2023, e aumentaram a reciclagem e a recuperação de resíduos da produção em 85,8% em 2022. Estes dados são demonstrativos do compromisso inabalável do setor com a sustentabilidade. Contudo, o setor precisará de ações urgentes por parte dos reguladores no sentido de reforçar a competitividade e recalibrar as políticas de sustentabilidade. Os reguladores terão de estimular a inovação por meio de um enquadramento normativo neutro no que respeita à tecnologia, procurando um equilíbrio entre a responsabilidade ambiental, a equidade social e o crescimento económico. Além disso, o regulamento europeu de ESG (Ambiente, Social e Governação) deve ser ajustado de modo a incentivar a inovação e permitir o progresso das empresas no sentido de cumprirem objetivos de sustentabilidade, ao invés de serem afogadas em requisitos de reporte.

Benjamin Krieger, Secretário-Geral da CLEPA, sublinha a importância desta visão: “Numa era definida por desafios sem precedentes, os fornecedores europeus da indústria automóvel continuam a liderar o caminho para a transformação sustentável. A nossa indústria opera numa cadeia de valor global e altamente interconectada. Para assegurar a sua continuidade, precisamos de condições competitivas para investir e de neutralidade tecnológica. O Manifesto para a Sustentabilidade aponta um caminho claro e atingível para a neutralidade climática, para a eficiência dos recursos e para a transformação da força de trabalho — assegurando que a Europa continuará a ser líder global na inovação verde.”

José Couto, Presidente da AFIA, refere o papel da AFIA é, e será, acompanhar os fabricantes de componentes para automóveis, representá-los, defendê-los e ajudá-los a antecipar e gerir os desafios do dia-a-dia e preparar as empresas para o futuro. Nomeadamente na necessária transição dos modelos de negócio tradicionais para um novo modelo que atenda a preocupações ambientais, sociais e de boa governação – ESG, Environment, Social & Governance, na sigla inglesa.

 

 

ACEDA AQUI AO MANIFESTO PARA A SUSTENTABILIDADE 

 

Sobre a CLEPA

CLEPA, a Associação Europeia de Fornecedores da Indústria Automóvel, sediada em Bruxelas, representa mais de 3000 empresas, desde multinacionais a PME, que fornecem componentes topo de gama e tecnologia inovadora para uma mobilidade mais segura, inteligente e sustentável, investindo mais de 30 mil milhões de euros anuais em investigação e desenvolvimento. Os fornecedores automóveis europeus são responsáveis por 1,7 milhões de empregos diretos na União Europeia. 

Contacto: communications@clepa.be

 

Sobre a AFIA

A AFIA – Associação de Fabricantes para a Indústria Automóvel é a associação portuguesa que congrega e representa, nacional e internacionalmente, os fornecedores de componentes para a indústria automóvel.

A indústria de componentes para automóveis em Portugal agrega cerca de 350 empresas e emprega diretamente 64.000 pessoas. Fatura 14,3 mil milhões de Euros (ano 2023), com uma quota de exportação superior a 85%.

Em termos de importância na economia nacional, representa 5,4% do PIB, 8,9% do emprego da indústria transformadora, 11,1% do valor acrescentado bruto da indústria transformadora, 15,6% das exportações nacionais de bens transacionáveis e 15,8% do investimento total da indústria transformadora.

Contacto: info@afia.pt