Applying engine emission limits to narrow-track tractors

29.4.2015

Question for written answer E-006781-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Elisabetta Gardini (PPE)

The Commission proposal COM(2014)0581 on requirements relating to emission limits and type-approval for internal combustion engines for non-road mobile machinery foresees new engine emission limits (so-called Stage V) for non-road mobile machinery. These will most likely be introduced as of 2019 and 2020 and will also apply to tractors and narrow-track tractors.

Unlike the case for other machinery, the deadline for meeting the requirements of the previous emission stages (Stage IIIB and IV) was delayed by three years for narrow-track tractors given their small size and the difficulty of fitting the necessary after-treatment devices on the machine.

The absolute minimum timeline between different emission limits is typically considered to be three years. This time is necessary for manufacturers to redevelop, produce and market the new machines.

However, given the previous delays and the proposed transition schemes being considered, the current timeline presents the inherent risk that Stage IV limits for narrow-track tractors will only be in place for 27 months. This would not be realistic or economically viable, particularly given the small number of machines produced (around 12 000 units per year).

In light of this,

— has any impact assessment been carried out with regard to the upcoming clash of timelines for narrow-track tractors for Stage V?— does the Commission intend to propose any amendment on this issue? If so, how will the issue be resolved?