Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000007/2025/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 144
Elena Kountoura (The Left)
Recent incidents reported in European winter destinations with increased tourist traffic, where electric vehicles have been immobilised due to low temperatures and lack of sufficient (fast) charge points, highlight major challenges relating to the infrastructure for and resilience of electric vehicles in extreme weather conditions.
The Batteries Regulation[1] introduces measures that promote the sustainability, durability and efficiency of batteries through strict performance and environmental durability standards. However, performance issues at low temperatures remain a major challenge which requires additional action by the EU[2]. The AFIR[3] Regulation sets mandatory national targets for Member States to develop electric vehicle charging infrastructure to support the transition to zero-emission mobility. However, the AFIR Regulation does not contain any specific provisions directly concerning tourist destinations[4].
Addressing these issues is crucial for promoting e-mobility and achieving the EU’s environmental targets, while ensuring smooth and safe mobility for citizens.
In view of this:
- 1.Are there any plans to promote further research and development to improve the durability of electric vehicle batteries in extreme weather conditions, making full use of the Batteries Regulation and strengthening its implementation?
- 2.What specific actions does the Commission intend to take within its powers to accelerate the development of charging infrastructure at tourist destinations, where increased traffic makes the availability of charging stations crucial to the success of the green transition?
Submitted: 3.1.2025
- [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32023R1542.
- [2] The autonomy of an electric vehicle can be reduced by 10 % at temperatures just below 0° C, and by up to 40 % at very low temperatures, below ‑10° C.
- [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32023R1804
- [4] The EU has set targets for the development of alternative fuels infrastructure. However, although the European Union’s regulation on the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure (AFIR) does not contain any specific provisions directly concerning tourist destinations, the general obligations imposed on Member States to develop alternative fuel recharging and refuelling infrastructure may also benefit tourist areas.