Auto industry contributes to Council discussions on EU’s future climate and energy policy

Ahead of tomorrow’s European summit, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) put forward its key recommendations for Europe’s climate and energy policy. In an open letter to European Council President Herman Van Rompuy, the CEOs of Europe’s 15 major vehicle manufacturers call for greater balance between climate objectives and global competitiveness, as well as a level playing field across industries
“Europe’s cars, vans, trucks and buses currently have the highest environmental standards in the world, and our industry is committed to further progress,” stated ACEA President and CEO of PSA Peugeot Citroën, Philippe Varin. “However, greenhouse gas emission and renewable energy targets must not be set at the expense of industry's growth and competitiveness in the global marketplace.”

Europe’s automobile industry directly or indirectly supports 13 million jobs in Europe, is responsible for €32 billion in annual R&D investment, and contributes €95.7 billion in net exports to the EU economy. “As a key pillar of Europe’s industrial base, our sector fully supports the Commission's objective of raising industry’s contribution to GDP to 20% by 2020,” stated ACEA Secretary General, Erik Jonnaert. “If this vision is to be achieved, the EU's industrial renaissance and climate protection must go hand-in-hand, as part of an integrated EU policy.”

In the letter, ACEA also urged political leaders to ensure equivalent targets for all industry sectors: “No other industry sector has done as much in driving down emission levels, both from its products and its production sites, as the auto sector. Looking ahead, it is important that all stakeholders contribute equally to achieving the EU’s future climate objectives.” (http://www.acea.be/uploads/press_releases_files/letter_to_Mr_Van_Rompuy.pdf).