The Czech Republic has expressed its opposition towards the European Commission’s Euro 7 emission standard proposal, which aims to reduce nitrogen oxides and particulate matter emissions from vehicles. Transport Minister Martin Kupka has stated that the new standard would threaten the production and accessibility of new vehicles and will seek modifications to the proposal.

Currently, cars are not subjected to emissions checks if they are more than five years old and have travelled more than 100,000 km. However, if the Euro 7 proposal is approved, vehicles will have to adhere to stricter standards for a longer period of time. Cars and vans will be subjected to checks until they reach 10 years old or have travelled 200,000 km. The standards will also apply to breaks and tyres, not just exhausts.

The proposed standards are aimed at giving manufacturers enough time to develop the necessary technology, such as low-emission brakes or sensors that monitor emissions during driving. However, the Czech automotive industry has warned that the proposal would result in new cars becoming significantly more expensive. Michal Kadera, the director of external relations at Czech automotive company Škoda, has also raised concerns that the measures would negatively impact the environment, as customers would opt to continue using their old and high-emission cars instead of purchasing new and more expensive vehicles.

Minister Kupka will discuss the issue with European Commissioner Thierry Breton on Friday and has stated that his German counterpart is also against the stricter standards. The Czech Republic’s stance on the Euro 7 proposal highlights the delicate balance between environmental protection and economic considerations in the automotive industry.

Article by Prague Forum