18
Jun
2026
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Circularity requirements for vehicle design and management of end-of-life vehicles (debate)
Madam President, dear colleagues, from the very first day in this House, I've been working on the end-of-life vehicle regulation. On this journey that has lasted two years, I've met a broad range of stakeholders across Europe: carmakers, component manufacturers, recyclers, treatment facilities, to mention a few. It has been a rewarding experience and the result reflects our common dedication to supporting key European industries. I want to highlight a few reasons that make this regulation so important from our point of view. Firstly, the single market – the heart of the Letta report. We are moving from a 20-year-old directive to a 21st-century regulation applicable across all of Europe. No more inconsistencies, no more diverging rules. This is part of the idea of 'One Europe' – the same rulebook for everyone that empowers actors across the value chain and gives clear instructions to national authorities. Secondly, strategic autonomy. The recycled content targets for plastic in vehicles are a major step that will support the European circular economy, anticipating the Circular Economy Act. But, importantly, the text is also open to future targets for steel, aluminium and critical raw materials. In a moment where we are reminded of our foreign dependencies, this law, at its heart, is about strengthening Europe's autonomy. Thirdly, environmental objectives. Every year, 3 million vehicles disappear from registration systems, and the new rules give authorities the tools to stop that through clear definitions and an export ban for non-working vehicles. Colleagues, the broad support that this regulation has received reflects the quality and balance of the proposal. It has also demonstrated that when we listen to each other and we work together, we make a good deal for our industry, our strategic autonomy and our environment.