Australia is gearing up for a transformative shift in its automotive landscape as tougher standards for tailpipe emissions from new petrol and diesel vehicles are set to roll out nationwide from 2025. The Federal Government has unveiled plans for stringent emissions standards, aligned with Europe and other developed regions, alongside upgrades to the quality of locally sold petrol.
This significant policy move aims to bring Australia in line with global standards while addressing the pressing issue of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. However, the transition poses challenges for hundreds of high-emission models, which will need to adopt cleaner engines to comply with the new regulations.
The current emissions standards in Australia, dating back to 2009, have lagged behind those in Europe and other regions for over a decade, contributing to the nation's reputation for having some of the dirtiest petrol in the developed world. The introduction of Euro 6d standards, which have been in force in Europe since 2021, signifies a long-overdue step towards aligning Australia's emissions protocols with global best practices.
Under the new regulations, all new cars, SUVs, and light commercial vehicles introduced from December 2025 must meet Euro 6d standards, with existing models given until 2028 to comply. This move is expected to drive the automotive industry towards cleaner technologies and catalyse the adoption of electric and low-emission vehicles across the country.
While the transition to cleaner vehicles is essential for mitigating climate change and improving air quality, it presents challenges for both car manufacturers and consumers. Many popular models, including top-selling utes and four-wheel-drives, currently only meet the minimum emissions standard, Euro 5. The shift towards Euro 6 compliance may require significant investments and adjustments in manufacturing processes.
In addition to emissions standards, the Federal Government plans to mandate improvements in fuel quality, including reducing the amount of sulphur in petrol and limiting "aromatic hydrocarbons" in premium unleaded fuel. These measures are aimed at further reducing harmful exhaust pollutants and promoting cleaner, more efficient combustion.
Despite the challenges, the move towards stricter emissions standards and cleaner fuels is expected to yield substantial benefits for public health, the environment, and the economy. By reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, Australia can save billions of dollars in health and fuel costs while protecting its citizens from the harmful effects of vehicle emissions.
As the automotive industry prepares for this paradigm shift, collaboration between government, industry stakeholders, and consumers will be crucial to ensure a smooth transition and maximise the benefits of cleaner transportation for all Australians. With concerted efforts and a commitment to sustainability, Australia can pave the way for a cleaner, greener future on its roads.
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