EU adopts new vehicle recycling and export rules

The European Parliament voted in favour of a new circular‑economy regulation for the vehicle sector. The rules require new cars to contain at least 15 % recycled plastic within six years and 25 % within ten years, with a share coming from end‑of‑life vehicles. manufacturers will receive expanded producer‑responsibility obligations three years after the regulation takes effect, meaning they must finance collection and treatment of scrapped cars across the EU.

Export of vehicles judged unsafe will be prohibited five years after the law starts, aiming to curb illegal dismantling and “missing” cars. When a professional sells a used car, they must provide a certificate confirming the vehicle is not a waste; private sales need documentation only if the car is declared a total economic loss or sold via an online platform. EU legislators Jens Gieseke (Germany) and Paulius Saudargas (Lithuania) highlighted the balance between environmental ambition and sector practicality. The Parliament approved the text with 437 votes for, 112 against and 20 abstentions, and it now awaits formal council approval before becoming applicable 24 months later.