Continued progress by the automotive and transport sector on cutting emissions cannot come at the expense of an industrial renaissance, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has said in an open letter ahead of its European summit.
Writing to European Council President Herman Van Rompuy, ACEA said a better balance between climate objectives and global competitiveness was needed as well as a level playing field across industries
ACEA President Philippe Varin “Europe’s cars, vans, trucks and buses currently have the highest environmental standards in the world, and our industry is committed to further progress.
“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.
“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.”
Varin said that no other sector has done as much in driving down emissions as the automotive industry.
“Looking ahead, it is important that all stakeholders contribute equally to achieving the EU’s future climate objectives,” he said.
Across Europe the automotive industry supports 13 million jobs, is responsible for €32 billion in annual R&D investment and contributes €95.7 billion in net exports to the EU economy.
The UK boasts seven commercial vehicle manufacturers, nine bus and coach builders, six design centres and 13 R&D facilities. It was responsible for more than £60 billion turnover in 2013, adding more than £12 billion of value to the economy.
