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New draft for automotive sector net-zero standard released
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has released an updated draft of its Automotive Sector Net-Zero Standard. This marks the start of a second public consultation aimed at automotive manufacturers and parts suppliers. The goal is to help these stakeholders align their targets with the scientific objective of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
This draft emphasizes coherence with the evolving Corporate Net-Zero Standard. It also aims to clarify emissions associated with the use of sold products and provides a clear definition of vehicles. As the automotive industry faces increasing pressure to address climate change, this initiative could play a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable future.
Understanding emissions in the automotive sector
A significant portion of emissions in the automotive industry comes from vehicle operation, accounting for up to 80% of an automaker’s total emissions footprint. The revised Automotive Standard aims to provide a structured, scientifically grounded framework for automotive companies. This framework enables them to set credible net-zero targets, with a particular emphasis on emissions during the use phase of their vehicles. Such improvements are expected to enhance the accuracy and credibility of targets aligned with the Corporate Net-Zero Standard.
Key updates to the draft
Several pivotal changes have been introduced in the new draft, including:
- Alignment with Corporate Net-Zero Standard V2: A concentrated focus on scope 3, category 11 emissions, specifically those arising from the use of sold products.
- Redefinition of low-emission vehicles: The term low-emission vehicles has been revised to encompass zero-emission vehicles(ZEVs), providing clearer parameters.
- Target-setting flexibility: Automakers can now choose to set targets based on either scope 3, category 11 emissions or a ZEV sales-share metric, ensuring consistent long-term decarbonization.
- Enhanced methodological alignment: The updates extend the convergence date for target calculations to account for regional, infrastructural, and technological variations.
- Global targeting for light-duty vehicles: This new provision aims to simplify the implementation process.
By adhering to the Automotive Standard, manufacturers can demonstrate their commitment to climate leadership while catalyzing innovation and boosting confidence among investors and consumers. Following this framework will aid in strategic decision-making for long-term, capital-intensive transitions. It also enhances readiness for regulatory changes and helps maintain a competitive edge within a complex global supply chain.
Engagement and feedback opportunity
The updated draft reflects extensive feedback gathered from the previous consultation, alongside insights from the Automotive Standard Expert Advisory Group and the SBTi Technical Council. These revisions aim to improve adaptability and usability for automotive businesses, ensuring alignment with the upcoming Corporate Net-Zero Standard Version 2. This process prioritizes scientific integrity at every step.
Importance of stakeholder participation
Once the consultation phase concludes, the finalized automotive standard will replace existing sections in the SBTi’s Land Transport Guidance that relate specifically to the automotive industry. This new standard aims to deliver updated, sector-specific criteria tailored to the unique operations and emissions characteristics of both manufacturers and their suppliers.
The consultation runs from February 3, 2026, to March 22, 2026, inviting input from all stakeholders interested in the automotive sector’s journey towards net-zero emissions. This period represents a pivotal opportunity for stakeholders to contribute to the formulation of a practical and robust final standard that effectively guides the industry’s decarbonization efforts.
Karl Downey, the Head of Sector Standards at the Science-Based Targets initiative, emphasized the significance of stakeholder feedback in shaping the new draft. He stated, “The insights we gathered from the previous public consultation were essential in refining this draft to enhance its adaptability and usability. Decarbonizing the road transport sector is crucial for achieving global net-zero targets, and ensuring that the standard accommodates the diverse operational contexts of automotive companies will benefit the entire sector. A final standard that empowers companies to capitalize on the opportunities presented by this transition will enable automakers and parts manufacturers to transform their ambitions into credible climate action.”