The new rules are coming, if you buy a car, you can't drive it without it.

The European Union has announced new regulations set to take effect in November 2026, significantly altering how vehicles are sold and operated. These rules will require all new cars to come equipped with a mandatory digital ecological passport, known as the eco-passport. This document will provide detailed information on emissions levels, fuel or electricity consumption, and the official range of electric vehicles after a single charge. Users will access this data through a QR code or directly via an onboard navigation system. The introduction of this passport aims to simplify the purchase process, especially for used vehicles, allowing future owners to quickly and reliably verify the condition of key components such as battery health. The new rules place special emphasis on electric vehicles. Manufacturers will be required to guarantee that batteries retain at least 80% of their initial capacity after five years of use or 100,000 kilometers driven. After eight years or 160,000 kilometers, the battery’s performance must remain above 72% of its original level. Additionally, manufacturers will have to conduct official measurements of vehicle range under temperatures of -7 degrees Celsius, ensuring buyers receive accurate information about winter driving conditions. According to reports from business daily publications, these measures aim to improve transparency and consumer confidence in electric vehicle performance during colder months. The updated Euro 7 emission standards also introduce stricter limits on fine particles emitted from braking systems and tires, not just from engine operation. Experts from TÜV Nord have noted that emissions from brakes and tires could soon surpass those from internal combustion engines. As a result, even electric vehicles, which do not emit exhaust gases, will need to undergo rigorous testing to measure these particle emissions. This change reflects a broader effort to address environmental concerns related to all types of vehicle operation. The European Commission has reassured the public that Euro 7 represents purely technical requirements for homologating new models. It does not serve as a tool to restrict traffic or ban vehicles from entering city centers. While the maximum allowable levels for nitrogen oxides and particulate matter from exhaust systems remain unchanged from Euro 6 standards, the responsibility placed on manufacturers regarding the durability of individual vehicle parts has increased substantially. Previously, automakers had to prove compliance with ecological standards up to 100,000 kilometers or five years of use. Under Euro 7, this obligation extends to 200,000 kilometers or ten years. This extension ensures greater transparency and reduces opportunities for market manipulation, particularly in the resale of used vehicles. Transparent data on battery status and extended warranties will benefit consumers purchasing second-hand vehicles by providing them with more reliable information about the vehicle's condition. This shift towards longer-term accountability marks a significant evolution in automotive regulation, aligning with growing demands for sustainability and consumer protection. As the deadline approaches, industry stakeholders are preparing to adapt to these changes, which are expected to reshape both manufacturing practices and buyer expectations.