June 18, 2026 15:29

The European Parliament, meeting in plenary session, approved the new EU rules on circularity in the automotive sector by 437 votes in favour, 112 against and 20 abstentions. The ELV Regulation covers the entire life cycle of a vehicle, from design to end-of-life treatment.

One chapter concerns plastics used in motor vehicles: within six years, they will have to contain at least 15% recycled plastic, rising to 25% within ten years. At least 20% of this recycled plastic will have to come from a closed-loop system, using materials recovered from end-of-life vehicles or used parts.

Based on feasibility studies, the Commission may in future introduce targets for other materials, such as recycled steel, aluminium, magnesium and critical raw materials.

Within three years of the Regulation’s entry into force, extended producer responsibility (EPR) will be introduced for manufacturers, who will be required to cover the costs of collecting and treating end-of-life vehicles anywhere in the EU.

Finally, to prevent illegal treatment and dismantling, the new EU legislation bans the export of vehicles declared unfit for circulation, a measure that will apply five years after the Regulation enters into force.

Following Parliament’s approval, the new Regulation will have to be formally adopted by the Council before entering into force and becoming applicable 24 months later.

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