Babylon Is Burning
MCIA and some European countries object to 2035 end to sale of non-zero machines
Bye Bye
The UK government and the EU have proposed a possible date of 2035 for an end to the sale of non-zero emissions motorcycles. Their aim is to meet global emissions targets on the way to net zero.
However the MCIA (Motorcycle Industry Association) in the UK has raised objections to this end date, as have several countries in Europe. Italy, and various other European countries, are backing an amendment to the European proposal, requesting a stay of execution in Italy for the combustion engine until 2040. They would like a more gradual reduction in the sale of internal combustion engine machines and claim that this would work as effectively in the long run as a dead stop.
Quite a few European countries have already signed up to this amendment but it does look as though they want it perhaps because it would be beneficial to their economies, for example Italy wants to protect sales of makes like Lamborghini, Ferrari, MV Agusta and Ducati, which are part of Italy’s global brand and an important component of their economy.
So far there isn’t an actual firm ruling on the end date for combustion engine motorcycles from the EU parliament, but if the proposed amendment is adopted the end date will have to be pushed back.
Here in the UK the MCIA have objected to the proposed 2035 end date for the sale of non-zero machines and asked the government to rethink it. The MCIA has spoken up in defence of some large capacity leisure motorcycles, saying that the sector needs a different approach as it makes up just 0.5% of UK transport emissions and these machines are often used irregularly for sport or leisure pursuits, and as such are only a tiny part of the problem but offer great benefits in terms of sport, health and mental wellbeing.
The MCIA puts forward its case in their
‘Journey to a brighter Destination’ document which is supported by MAG, Mental Health Motorbike and the ACU.
So how do you feel about this? Do you think the government should stick to its plans for the sake of the planet and hold the line at 2035, or be more flexible regarding motorcycling as its emissions are lower?
It would be really interesting to hear your views so contact us via email if you have any thoughts at:
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