Cleaner vehicles, clearer battery information and greater confidence when choosing an EV. The next generation of vehicle standards is about more than what comes out of an exhaust.

The Government has confirmed plans to introduce Euro 7 for new mainstream cars and vans registered in Great Britain from 29th November 2027, following its consultation earlier this year. Legislation will follow to put the changes into effect.

For drivers and businesses considering electric vehicle leasing, the battery requirements are a particularly relevant part of the announcement. 

What is Euro 7?

Euro 7 is the latest European vehicle emissions standard. It builds on previous rules by addressing exhaust pollution, particles produced by brakes and tyres, and the durability of electric vehicle batteries.

That wider scope matters. Fully electric vehicles produce no exhaust emissions when driven, but they still have tyres, brakes and batteries. Euro 7 recognises that improving vehicle standards means looking beyond the exhaust pipe.

When will Euro 7 apply in Great Britain?

The government has set out the following approach:

• 29 November 2027: Euro 7 will become the minimum standard for new car and van registrations from mainstream manufacturers under the unlimited series approval route.

• 1 July 2030: The registration deadline will apply to small volume manufacturers using that route.

• Trucks, buses and coaches: Implementation will be subject to a further consultation.

Some limited series and individual vehicle approval routes will remain outside the initial mandatory requirements. The November 2027 deadline therefore should not be described as applying to every new road vehicle.

Why does Euro 7 matter for EV batteries?

“How long will the battery last?” is an understandable question when choosing an electric car.

Euro 7 introduces minimum battery capacity retention requirements over defined periods and mileages for electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. It also requires battery health monitoring that provides accurate, accessible and comparable information about battery condition.

For drivers, the potential benefit is straightforward: more useful information when comparing vehicles.

A mileage figure tells you how far a car has travelled. Battery health information helps explain the condition of one of its most significant components. Together, they can support a more informed decision, particularly when an EV enters the used market.

What changes for brakes and tyres?

Euro 7 also introduces requirements covering pollution from brake wear and tyre abrasion.

These are often called non-exhaust emissions: particles released through everyday use rather than through burning petrol or diesel. The government identifies these emissions as an important area for improving air quality.

For fleet managers, this reinforces the value of considering the whole vehicle when planning maintenance and replacement cycles, including tyre choice, condition and servicing.

What about plug-in hybrids?

Plug-in hybrids are also covered by Euro 7’s battery durability requirements.

The government will retain flexibility allowing manufacturers to use certain earlier PHEV CO₂ values when meeting their non-zero-emission vehicle targets, including for Euro 7-approved vehicles. This flexibility runs until 2030.

For anyone choosing a company car, manufacturer compliance rules should be considered separately from the vehicle’s quoted CO₂ figure and personal tax position. Ask for a current, vehicle-specific illustration when comparing your options.

What does Euro 7 mean for EV leasing?

For businesses planning their next fleet renewal, Euro 7 is another development to keep on the radar.

Our advice is to keep your decision focused on how the vehicle will work for you:

• Daily mileage: Does its range suit your usual journeys?

• Charging: Where will you charge, and how often?

• Practicality: Does it have the space and features you need?

• Overall cost: What will the rental, charging and maintenance cost together?

Battery standards and clearer information can support that decision, but the right EV still starts with your needs.

Based on the Department for Transport’s consultation outcome published on 27 October 2026.