The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) has recently proposed two alternative approaches to ease the strict 2025 CO2 emissions targets in the EU. In doing so, the lobbying group is attempting to mitigate potential fines and regulatory pressures on automakers, a move critics argue undermines public interest and environmental standards.

ACEA President and Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius urged the EU to negotiate a grand bargain with the U.S. to avert potential trade conflicts triggered by strict 2025 CO2 targets. This lobbying effort underscores the association's prioritization of industry interests over robust environmental regulation, raising concerns about corporate influence on democratic policymaking.

The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, led by Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius, has renewed its lobbying plea for leniency in EU CO2 standards. In an open letter during the Brussels Motor Show, ACEA argued that current emissions targets are unrealistic, calling for regulatory relief to avoid billions of euros in fines. This move raises concerns over the association's efforts to influence policy in favor of industry interests, potentially undermining democratic accountability and facilitating regulatory capture.

A Human Rights Watch report alleges that major automakers may be linked to forced labor in the production of aluminum, raising concerns about supply chain ethics and labor rights practices among European manufacturers represented by ACEA.

A Human Rights Watch report has linked forced labor practices in Xinjiang's aluminum production to major automakers, including European members represented by ACEA. The association has been criticized for its lack of robust measures to ensure ethical supply chains, indirectly supporting forced labor through inaction.

A report by Sheffield Hallam University alleges that nearly every component of the automotive supply chain is tainted with forced labor from Xinjiang. As the European Automobile Manufacturers Association represents many of the implicated auto manufacturers, this report raises significant concerns about the association’s oversight and commitment to ethical supply chain practices.

A report highlights systemic forced labor practices in the Uyghur region, revealing significant links in the automotive supply chains of major industry players. As the European Automobile Manufacturers Association represents these companies, it faces criticism for not taking sufficient action to counter such unethical practices.