Vehicle emission standards are used to set strict limits on pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and fine particulate matter (PM) to improve air quality. They set the test procedures for these pollutants, as well as the official figures for:
- carbon dioxide (CO2)
- fuel economy
- energy consumption
- electric range
The standards are also used to define in-service conformity (ISC) testing measures to check that vehicles continue to meet the emission standards they were approved to throughout their lifetime.
In Europe, emission standards are known as Euro standards, beginning with Euro 1 for light-duty vehicles (cars and vans) and Euro I for heavy-duty vehicles (trucks, buses and coaches) in the 1990s. The standards have become stricter over time. The current standards are Euro 6 and Euro VI for light and heavy-duty vehicles.
Euro 7 is the EU’s latest emission standard and will apply to new light-duty vehicle models from 29 November 2026 and to new heavy-duty vehicle models from 29 May 2028. The UK has helped develop this standard through the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).
Government are proposing to update the minimum emission standard for new light and heavy-duty vehicles in Great Britain to the Euro 7 emission standard, in line with the EU.
Responses will only be accepted if received before the closing date: 11:59pm on 25 May 2026.
The easiest way to respond is to use the online response form. Alternatively, if you cannot use the online form, email or post your response.
Email to: ivs.consult@dft.gov.uk
Write to: International Vehicle Standards, 3rd Floor, Zone 4, Great Minster House, 33 Horseferry Rd
London SW1P 4DR
Further information: