Euro 7 is the European Union’s emissions regulation for new vehicles. Beyond the tailpipe, it covers brake particles, tyre wear and how long an EV battery should last.
In this article
- Beyond the exhaust
- Battery durability is regulated
- When it applies
Beyond the exhaust
Exhaust limits are largely carried over from Euro 6, but brakes and tyres now count. Cars with regenerative braking have an advantage because their friction brakes wear less.
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Brake particles | Limit of 7 mg/km for most cars |
| Battery, first threshold | 80 percent capacity at 5 years or 100,000 km |
| Battery, second threshold | 72 percent at 8 years or 160,000 km |
| Exhaust limits | Largely carried over from Euro 6 |
Figures are approximate and change as rules, prices and technology change.
Battery durability is regulated
Electric cars must keep a stated share of their original battery capacity after a set age or distance. That gives used-EV buyers something to point to.
Regulation sets the floor, and the market decides how far above it cars go.
When it applies
The rules apply to new vehicle types from late 2026 and to every new registration about a year later.
What to watch next
- Ask your dealer whether a model is already Euro 7 compliant
- Expect some older models to be discontinued
- Compare battery health reports on used EVs
- Check the final legal text before relying on any single figure
Practical tip
Compliance dates apply to model types first, so a car registered after the deadline may still be an older type.
Bottom line
For most drivers the change shows up slowly, through discontinued engines and stronger battery guarantees.
Specifications, prices and rules change. Confirm current details with the manufacturer or the relevant authority before you buy or repair.
