The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) created a draft and is seeking public comments on its latest SBTi Automotive Sector Net-Zero Standard.
The proposed standard represents a comprehensive framework specifically designed for the automotive sector, which is responsible for over 20% of global man-made GHG emissions and vulnerable to climate-related risks spanning supply chain disruption.
The standard is aligned with the draft Corporate Net-Zero Standard Version 2, which defines broader cross-sector requirements. The SBTi will ensure consistency between both evolving standards, giving companies a clear structure that accelerates their path to credible net-zero action.
The standard includes updated sector-specific criteria for emissions reductions across all operational areas and supply chains in Scopes 1, 2 and 3, building on the SBTi’s Land Transport Guidance published in March 2024.
The consultation welcomes all feedback on the draft, with particular interest in six key areas: alignment with the draft Corporate Net-Zero Standard V2, including clarity on how to apply the criteria from each standard; a new aggregated indicator that combines the relevant emissions in Scopes 1, 2 and 3 for automakers manufacturing new vehicle; new criteria requiring companies to increase their “low-emission vehicle sales share,” replacing the requirement to commit to the Zero Emissions Vehicles Declaration; regional emissions pathways designed to reflect economic and market differences; new criteria for auto part manufacturers to focus efforts on reducing emissions from material sourcing and manufacturing; and additional guidance on emissions calculation, including a more detailed well-to-wheel methodology with default data inputs.
“Decarbonizing the road transport sector is a crucial component of meeting our global net-zero goals, and the automotive sector has a substantial role to play as providers of new vehicles,” said Karl Downey, Head of Sector Standards at the Science-Based Targets initiative, in a statement. “The transition to net-zero provides an abundance of opportunity for industry innovation and attractive offers for customers. The feedback we receive from stakeholders will ensure that the final Automotive Sector Net-Zero Standard enables automakers and auto parts manufacturers to make ambitious and practical greenhouse gas reductions and helps them seize the opportunities of electrification — building resilience and greater efficiency while maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly transforming market.”