News

15th ACEM Conference - The Motorcycle Industry’s Vision for decarbonisation
27 Oct 2022

A high-level panel of industry and technology experts will discuss the the motorcycle industry’s latest initiatives in the area of decarbonisation, within the context of the EU’s climate targets and the industry’s Vision 2030+. They will be joined by a panel of public leaders from the EU and local levels to address current and future policies to place Europe on the path to climate-neutral transport.

ACEM statement - Charging of electric powered-two wheelers: a step in the right direction
21 Oct 2022

On Wednesday, 19 October 2022, the European Parliament adopted Ismail Ertug MEP's report on the European Commission’s proposal for an Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation. Negotiations with the Member States (Council of the EU) will start soon, with the aim of reaching final adoption before the end of the year.

ACEM welcomes the outcome of the European Parliament’s vote, as this Regulation is the key to furthering support the fast roll-out of recharging infrastructure for electric vehicles.

ACEM particularly welcomes that the adopted amendments enhance the recognition of electric Powered Two-Wheelers (PTWs) by:

• Requesting the European Commission to review the need to include requirements for charging infrastructure to serve electric PTWs, “in particular the opportunity to equip charging infrastructure with a household power socket that makes it possible for such vehicles to be easily charged, since they represent a mode of transport that can help further reduce CO2 emissions and air pollution”;

• Requiring national authorities to adopt measures to promote the use of electric PTWs, such as e-mopeds, within their National Policy Frameworks;

• Asking Member States to report on the deployment of electric recharging infrastructure for L-category vehicles, both in terms of number of recharging stations and their power output.

Quote

Commenting on the result of the European Parliament’s vote, ACEM Secretary General, Antonio Perlot said:

“This is a crucial first step towards the adoption of a robust legal framework to support the fast deployment of charging infrastructure for electric two-wheelers and other vehicles across Europe”.

“If one regret, the Report falls short on the issue of ensuring security when recharging electric vehicles. As stressed by the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM), the Federation of European Motorcyclists Associations (FEMA) and ACEM in the past, charging stations should be equipped with anti-theft protections or surveillance systems to deter theft of motorcycles while they are being recharged”.

Background information

In July 2021 the European Commission published a proposal for a Regulation replacing the 2014 Directive on Alternative Fuel Infrastructure.

The file was handled by the European Parliament’s Transport and Tourism Committee (TRAN). The rapporteur is Ismail Ertug (S&D, Germany).

The draft report was published on 14 February 2022 and presented to the TRAN Committee on 14 March 2022.

On 2 June 2022, the Council of the EU adopted its General Approach, i.e. its position for negotiations with the Parliament on the final wording of the new rules.

More information

European Commission's proposal for an Alternative fuel infrastructure Regulation (AFIR)

ACEM position paper - Electric mobility and PTWs The role of ePTWs in sustainable mobility [PDF]

Minisite - ACEM Vision 2030

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM Communications Manager
 
+32 496 52 65 17

 

 

ACEM to participate in the European Commission’s new Expert Group on Urban Mobility
03 Oct 2022

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) has been selected by the European Commission to participate in its new Expert Group on Urban Mobility. This Expert Group will provide technical expertise to the European Commission’s services for developing legislation, policies, and programmes in the field of sustainable urban mobility.

The Expert Group on Urban Mobility will also work to increase cooperation and coordination between the European Commission, Member States, and key stakeholders in the implementation of EU legislation, programmes, and policies relating to urban mobility, including sustainable urban mobility planning, transport contingency preparedness, and energy efficiency.

As the motorcycle industry evolves to meet new sustainability requirements, ACEM will support European Commission and Member States authorities in their efforts to develop synergies between EU, national, and regional funding and financing opportunities in research and development and innovation, and in deploying sustainable urban mobility solutions.

ACEM members are fully committed to working with European, national, and local authorities to implement the EU Green Deal and to enhance access to and availability of electric and low emission powered-two wheelers across Europe.

The first meeting of the new Expert Group on Urban Mobility will be held in Brussels on 25 October 2022.

Background information

• In July 2022 the European Commission adopted a decision to set up an Expert Group on Urban Mobility.
• This new group is one of the key elements of the EU Urban Mobility Framework, adopted in December 2021 as part of the Efficient and Green Mobility Package.

More information

The new EU Urban Mobility Framework
ACEM position paper on urban mobility
ACEM position paper on electro-mobility
ACEM position paper on micro-mobility
ACEM Vision 2030+

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM Communications Manager
 
+32 496 52 65 17

 

ACEM - eFuel Alliance online event - "Bridging the gap to climate neutrality. The case of eFuels for motorcycles"
16 Sep 2022

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) and the eFuel Alliance will hold an open online event on 28 September 2022 (14:30 - 15:45 CET) to discuss how eFuels can support the decarbonisation of the European two-wheeler fleet. The event will also address the role of eFuels for long-distance commuting vehicles and travelling in remote areas, as well as other topics discussed in the recent ACEM - eFuel Alliance position paper on eFuels.

eFuels are a necessary technology option for long range commuting and in areas with a lack of infrastructure. When combined with electric models, carbon-neutral fuels can address the existing vehicle stock, sustainably powering future models, while protecting the existing production chain.

During this event, we would like to discuss the application of eFuels in the two-wheeler sector with decision-makers from politics and within the industry, explain the state of the technology, and show pathways to climate-neutral and accessible mobility.

Speakers

  • Andreas Glück. Member of the European Parliament
  • Claudio Domenicali. Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. - Chief Executive Officer
  • Jörg Engelmann. CAC Chemieanlagenbau Chemnitz GmbH - Chief Executive Officer
  • Monika Griefahn. eFuel Alliance - Spokesperson for the Board of Directors
  • Karl-Maria Grugl. European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) - Chairman of the Technical and Regulatory Affairs Committee
  • Antonio Perlot. European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) - Secretary General
  • Wolfgang Warnecke. Shell Detuschland. Advisor for Carbon Management

Moderation

Ralf Diemer. eFuel Alliance - Managing Director

Time

28 September 2022 - 14:30 - 15:45 (CET)

Registration link

https://fulmidas-de.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rNmduK-vTSuC0CRexceO4g 

ACEM joins the eFuel Alliance. Joint online event to be hosted on 28 September
07 Sep 2022

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) has joined the eFuel Alliance, representing more than 170 companies, associations and consumer organisations that are a part of the eFuel production value chain.

The main objective of the eFuel Alliance is to enable the industrial production and widespread use of CO2-neutral fuels made from renewable energy sources to increase the sustainability of Europe's transport system.

Powered two-wheelers are small, light, efficient vehicles used for everyday commuting or leisure. They have minimal impact on greenhouse gas emissions and significantly contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of Europe's mobility system.

The motorcycle industry's Vision 2030 + includes a decarbonisation strategy that foresees the use of a range of technological solutions. Electric vehicles will play a central role in this strategy, although some two-wheeler segments currently remain very hard to electrify, particularly leisure-oriented vehicles.

This is mainly because current propulsion batteries for this segment remain large and heavy. This affects vehicles' handling and dynamics and requires significant trade-offs at the expense of range and convenience.

eFuels would be a perfect solution for those vehicle segments for which electrification remains challenging from a technical standpoint. eFuels would also be instrumental in reducing CO2 emissions from the legacy fleet of ICE two-wheelers in the EU and the UK, which currently amounts to about 40 million vehicles.

Event on the potential of eFuels for decarbonising the motorcycle industry

ACEM and the eFuel Alliance will also hold an open online event on 28 September 2022 to discuss how eFuels can support the decarbonisation of the two-wheeler fleet.

The event will also address the role of eFuels for vehicles used for long-distance commuting and travelling in remote areas, as well as other topics discussed in the recent ACEM-EFA position paper on eFuels.

Speakers will include experts from motorcycle OEMs, eFuel manufacturers and EU policy-makers.

Invitations to join the online event will be emailed and posted on social media in the coming days.

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM Communications Manager
 
+32 496 52 65 17

Note

The eFuel Alliance is an interest group working for the political and social acceptance of eFuels and their approval. It represents more than 170 companies, associations and consumer organisations that are part of the eFuel production value chain.

The eFuel Alliance stands for fair competition and a level playing field for all relevant emission reduction solutions and is committed to greater climate protection. It also aims to raise awareness on how eFuels can significantly contribute to sustainability and climate protection.

The eFuel Alliance aims to enable the industrial production and widespread use of CO2-neutral fuels made from renewable energy sources.

To learn more about the eFuel Alliance, please visit: https://www.efuel-alliance.eu 

***

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) represents manufacturers of mopeds, motorcycles, three-wheelers and quadricycles (L-category vehicles) in Europe. ACEM members include 18 manufacturing companies and 18 national industry associations.

ACEM manufacturing members, which include some of the largest multinationals in the sector, are BMW Motorrad, Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), Ducati Motor Holding, Harley-Davidson, Honda Motor Europe, Kawasaki Motors Europe, KTM, KYMCO, MV Agusta, Peugeot Motorcycles, Piaggio Group, Polaris Industries, Qooder, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, Triumph Motorcycles, Yamaha Motor Europe and Zero Motorcycles.

The motorcycle sector in the EU and the UK supports about 389,000 jobs in different activities, including manufacturing vehicles, parts and accessories, personal protective equipment, and other motorcycle-related activities.

The motorcycle sector contributes about € 21.4 billion of GDP across Europe annually. All in all, every € 1 of GDP generated directly by motorcycle businesses supports another € 1.80 in other industries due to the various positive knock-on expenditure impacts.

To learn more about ACEM, please visit: https://www.acem.eu 

To learn more about ACEM's Vision 2030+, please visit: https://www.acem.eu/vision2030

 

ACEM position paper - Bridging the gap to climate neutrality. The case of eFuels for powered two-wheelers
07 Sep 2022

This position paper sheds light on the key questions regarding eFuel, its production and use. It has been prepared with the support of the eFuel Alliance. In parallel to the development and deployment of more electric vehicles on the market every year, ACEM members are continuing to reduce the level of CO2 emissions from traditional internal combustion engines (ICEs), still widely in use today and in the near future.

ACEM supports other carbon neutral energy carriers’ innovations. eFuel, in particular, should be developed with a production volume that supports decarbonisation of the existing fleet of ICE vehicles and for products for which electrification is not expected to be possible in the medium to long term (e.g. products used for long-distance commuting and travelling in remote areas).

ACEM would especially welcome the introduction of a % / volume mandate of low / zero carbon content fuels for road transport, as part of the coming Renewable Energy Directive revision.

Documents available to download

ACEM position paper - Bridging the gap to climate neutrality. The case of eFuels for powered two-wheelers [PDF]

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM Communications Manager
 
+32 496 52 65 17

 

 

 

The CMC releases an in-depth study on detection of two-wheelers by Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
01 Sep 2022

A new white paper published by the Connected Motorcycle Consortium (CMC) discusses the current state of automobile ADAS from a two-wheeler detection point of view. It also presents an evaluation of potential methods to improve PTW conspicuity and analyses previous relevant studies (e.g. current research, academic papers, technical reports, etc.).

Drivers of powered-two wheelers (PTWs) are vulnerable road users who require special attention from other road users due to the relatively small size of the vehicle. This issue has become even more important with car manufacturers introducing level 3 and 4 automated vehicles, with level 3 transferring (at least temporarily) the responsibility for vehicle control to the vehicle itself.

Motorcycle manufacturers are seriously concerned that this may lead to an increase in two-wheelers accidents, as car drivers start to become more dependent on Level 1 and 2 ADAS and less attentive to other vehicles around them. Motorcycle industry experts are also worried that modern cars lack robust enough equipment to correctly detect motorcycles.

Against this background, reliable detection of PTWs by passenger car ADAS is absolutely essential to avoid car-PTW collisions and to decrease the number of motorcycle accidents. Passenger cars must be able to appropriately recognize motorcycle manoeuvres in ordinary traffic, such as weaving in, leaning while cornering or splitting lanes.

Document available to download

Connected Motorcycle Consortium (CMC) paper - Powered-two wheeler conspicuity [PDF]

Background information

• The Connected Motorcycle Consortium (CMC) brings together motorcycle OEMs, suppliers, researchers and associations to make motorcycles part of the future connected mobility. CMC members are also working on creating synergies between on-board sensor systems and connectivity solutions.

• The CMC has launched a Basic Specification for Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS) for motorcycles in 2020. The CMC was created in 2016, building on the ACEM Memorandum of Understanding on C-ITS.

• Modern cars are increasingly equipped with on-board sensor systems (radars, cameras, etc.) and driver assistance systems. These vehicle systems need to include motorcycle requirements in order to enhance safety effects in mixed traffic conditions. The CMC believes that tailored motorcycle/car scenarios and tests need to be developed and standardized.

• The ACEM’s “How will automated cars impact motorcycle safety?” (2019) position paper explains why automation must, not only improve convenience for car drivers but also safety for all road users.

• MAIDS, the in-depth European motorcycle accident study, found that about 37% of all accidents involving other vehicles (OV) and motorcycles were linked to an OV driver perception failure. This means that the OV driver may have failed to see the motorcycle prior to the subsequent event that caused the accident.

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM Communications Manager
 
+32 496 52 65 17

 

 

Registrations of motorcycles and mopeds in largest markets remain stable in the first 6 months of 2022
22 Aug 2022

Registrations of new motorcycles in five of the largest European markets (i.e. France, Germany, Italy, Spain and UK) showed a slight decrease of 0.5% (532,980 units) during the first six months of 2022, compared to the same period of 2021 (532,460 units).

Some of the largest European motorcycle markets registered increases, including Germany (117,800 motorcycles registered, +1.7%) and Spain (91,870 units, +10.7%). Registrations decreased in France (108,000 units, -6.4%), Italy (161,500 units, -2.8%) and the UK (53,650 motorcycles registered, -2.3% compared to the first half of 2021).

The moped segment performed slightly better during the six months of 2022. Moped registrations reached a total of about 134,500 units in the six largest European moped markets (i.e. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain). This represents an increase of 1.0 % in comparison to the first six months of 2021.

Quote

Commenting on the current situation of the sector, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said:

“In recent months, two-wheeler sales have been affected by logistic disruptions at international level. This led to a backlog in vehicle deliveries in several European markets. Sales were also affected by rising energy costs and inflation, higher interest rates and broad economic uncertainty.”

“That said, registrations for mopeds and motorcycles in Europe remained stable in comparison to the first half of 2021. Due to their relatively low purchasing and running costs, two-wheelers have fared much better than other private means of transport.”

“We will know whether 2022 was a good year for our sector, when the aggregated figures for the first nine months of the year become available.”

Documents available to download

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - June 2022 [PDF]
ACEM - Statistical press release - January - June 2022 [XLS]
ACEM - Statistical releases - FAQ [PDF]
ACEM - Statistical releases - Glossary [PDF]

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM Communications Manager
 
+32 496 52 65 17

Job opening - ACEM is currently looking to expand its team with a new policy advisor
28 Jun 2022

ACEM, the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers, is the industry association that represents manufacturers of powered-two and three-wheelers as well as quadricycles (L-category vehicles) in Europe.

ACEM members include 18 manufacturing companies and 19 national industry associations in 17 different European countries. About 400.000 jobs depend on the motorcycle, moped, tricycle and quadricycle industry in Europe. ACEM works closely with the EU institutions, as well as with a wide range of stakeholders, in different policy-areas. These include type-approval of L-category vehicles, environmental legislation, road safety and transport policies, international trade negotiations, etc.

In the context of the implementation of its Vision2030+, ACEM is strengthening its team with additional competences in the policy field and is looking for a Policy Advisor European Affairs (new position). Seize your chance to work in an innovative sector!

Function

The “Policy Adviser European Affairs” will be part of a small, service minded team (8 persons) at the headquarters of ACEM in Brussels. He / she will operate mainly with the Director of Corporate and Public Affairs.

His / her main tasks will be to:
• Monitor and gather information on key EU regulatory and policy developments of interest for the motorcycle sector.
• Support the design, implement and coordinate the implementation of lobbying and advocacy strategies.

Together with the rest of the ACEM team, he/she will manage ACEM internal working groups, task forces and committees on a variety of subjects as defined in the ACEM Vision 2030+, support the development of Industry positions, draft papers, ensure effective cooperation and coordination with the Members and with different stakeholders, and support the development of good working relationships with the EU institutions.

Profile

• Minimum two years of experience in EU affairs, preferably in an industry association
• University level education, preferably in an area related to European studies or law
• Excellent knowledge of EU policy making
• Good organisational and communication skills
• Excellent drafting skills in English, excellent verbal communication skills in English (additional languages
is a plus)
• Capability to understand technical subjects
• Interest in mobility issues and sustainable development
• Knowledge of/interest in motorcycling an asset but not a prerequisite
• Self-starter, team player, can-do attitude.

Contact

We offer a demanding and rewarding position in a committed team with an open atmosphere. The position is full time, starting Q4 2022.

Candidates should apply by sending a CV and a cover letter to , by 15/07/2022.

Documents available to dowlonad

Job offer - Policy Adviser European Affairs - ACEM [PDF]

 

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers elects new senior management team
15 Jun 2022

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) announced today different senior leadership appointments: Michele Colaninno, Chief Executive of global strategy, product, marketing and innovation of the Piaggio Group (PIA.MI), founder and Chair of Piaggio Fast Forward, is the new President of ACEM.

The association also appointed three Vice-Presidents who will support the President in his mission to lead the organisation during his two-year mandate.

The appointed Vice-Presidents are:

Stefan Pierer, CEO of KTM AG, and outgoing ACEM President
Dr Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad, the motorcycle branch of the BMW Group
Eric de Seynes, President of Yamaha Motor Europe N.V.

The election of the new ACEM leadership took place during the annual General Assembly held in Brussels on 15 June 2022.

Quote

Michele Colaninno, new President of the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers, said:

“As the new ACEM President, I would like to congratulate Stefan Pierer who has brilliantly been acting in this role for five years. I am also very thankful to my colleagues for trusting Piaggio in this prestigious and challenging role that I will carry out with the greatest commitment.

“I look forward to working with all members of the association to promote our priorities described in the Vision 2030+. As part of this Vision, the European motorcycle industry will keep working to bring innovative and low-carbon vehicles to the market, for commuting, leisure and urban mobility.

“Also as part of Vision 2030+, we will intensify our dialogue with the EU institutions and we will boost industry cooperation in strategic areas for the future of mobility in Europe, such as connectivity, safety and electrification.”

Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said:

“Stefan Pierer has done an excellent job at positioning ACEM for the future, and reinforcing our team in Brussels. This was essential at a time when the mobility and industrial ecosystems in Europe were undergoing rapid and important transformations, and it remains an important factor as these changes continue to take place.

“I look forward to working with Michele Colaninno and our new leadership team, our partners in the European institutions, and other stakeholders in the mobility space, to ensure that opportunities are seized in the interest of the motorcycle sector and society.”

Documents available to download

ACEM new leadership - High resolution photos

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua. ACEM Communications Manager
 
+32 (0) 22 30 97 32.

Note for editors

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) represents manufacturers of mopeds, motorcycles, three-wheelers and quadricycles (L-category vehicles) in Europe. ACEM members include 18 manufacturing companies and 18 national industry associations.

ACEM manufacturing members, which include some of the largest multinationals in the sector, are: BMW Motorrad, Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), Ducati Motor holding, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, KYMCO, MV Agusta, Peugeot Scooters, Piaggio, Polaris Industries, Renault, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, Triumph Motorcycles and Yamaha.

The motorcycle sector in the EU and the UK supports about 389,000 jobs through different activities including the manufacturing of vehicles, parts and accessories, and personal protective equipment, as well as motorcycle-related activities.

The motorcycle sector contributes about €21.4 billion of GDP across Europe every year. All in all, every €1 of GDP created directly by motorcycle businesses supports a further €1.80 of GDP in other industries, due to the various knock-on expenditure impacts.

To learn more about Vision 2030+ please visit: https://www.acem.eu/vision2030 

***

Michele Colaninno is Chief Executive of global strategy, product, marketing and innovation of the Piaggio Group (PIA.MI), founder and Chairman of Piaggio Fast Forward, the Group robotics company headquartered in Boston, USA, whose mission is to develop innovative mobility solutions for the future.

In addition, Michele Colaninno, who was born in 1976, is Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer of the Immsi Group, an industrial holding active in the financial, real estate and industrial sectors listed on the Milan Stock Exchange (IMS.MI), with revenues of more than 1.7 billion euro.

 

Registrations of motorcycles and mopeds in largest European markets continue to increase in Q1 2022
16 May 2022

Registrations of new motorcycles in five of the largest European markets (i.e. France, Germany, Italy, Spain and UK) showed an increase of 14.6% (226,793 units) during the first three months of 2022, compared to the same period of 2021.

Most of the largest European motorcycle markets registered increases, including the UK (27,807 motorcycle registered, +56.4% compared to the same quarter of 2021), Germany (54,106 motorcycles registered, +30.4%), Spain (38,922 units, +16.3%) and France (45,702 units, +2.3%). Motorcycle registrations in the Italian market remained stable during Q1 2022, at 60,256 units (-0.4%).

European motorcycle markets remain very strong and have been consistently growing since 2020, when countries exited the initial C-19 pandemic lockdowns across Europe.

The moped segment also performed well during the first quarter of 2022. Moped registrations reached a total of 57,755 units in the six largest European moped markets (i.e. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain). This represents an increase of 3.5% in comparison to the first quarter of 2021.

Quote

Commenting on the current situation of the sector, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said:

“The registration figures for the first quarter of 2022 show that the moped and motorcycle registrations in key European markets remained strong, in spite of the manufacturing and logistical issues created by the C-19 pandemic”.

“Preliminary data for April indicates a slight slowdown for some markets, due to the shortage of semiconductors and shipping delays affecting the availability of some models. Sales in the coming months may also be affected, up or down, by factors such as rising fuel prices and the general economic situation in Europe”.

“The registration figures for the second and third quarters will tell us whether the motorcycle and moped markets performed well in 2022, as most sales take place in spring and early summer”.

Documens available to download

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - March 2022 [PDF]
ACEM - Statistical press release - January - March 2022 [XLS]
ACEM - Statistical releases - FAQ [PDF]
ACEM - Statistical releases - Glossary [PDF]

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM communications manager
 
+32 496 52 65 17

Joint industry position paper - Essential uses of chemicals
15 May 2022

As part of the Chemical Strategy for Sustainability (CSS), a number of legislative and non-legislative measures with wide-ranging impacts on the auto industry are planned. These include amendments which will affect how the REACH Regulation is applied.

In response to the consultation by the Competent Authorities for REACH and CLP (CARACAL), the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM), the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), the European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA), the European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA), the Japan Auto Parts Industries’ Association (JAPIA) and the Korea Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (KAMA) have developed a joint position on ‘essential uses’.

The CSS outlines that the European Commission will “define criteria for essential uses to ensure that the most harmful chemicals are only allowed if their use is necessary for health, safety or is critical for the functioning of society and if there are no alternatives that are acceptable from the standpoint of environment and health. These criteria will guide the application of essential uses in all relevant EU legislation for both generic and specific risk assessments.”

The determination of these criteria and the definition of ‘essential uses’ will have a decisive impact on the industry. ACEM, ACEA, CLEPA, ETRMA, JAPIA and KAMA therefore believe that it is of the utmost importance to provide a balanced and clear definition of the criteria for the notion of ‘essential use’, and that this should be one of the first steps undertaken as part of the CSS.

Documents available to download

Joint industry position paper - Essential uses of chemicals [PDF]

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua. ACEM Communications Manager
 
+32 (0) 22 30 97 32

 

The German Institute for Motorcycle Safety (IFZ) calls for papers on scooter and motorcycle safety
28 Feb 2022

The German Institute for Motorcycle Safety (Institut für Zweiradsicherheit e.V.) has announced a call for papers on scooter and motorcycle safety. The deadline for submissions of abstracts is 16 March 2022 ().

The selected papers will be presented during the 14th International Motorcycle Conference, which will take place in Cologne, Germany, on 3 and 4 October 2022. The event will give scientists, researchers and practitioners the opportunity to exchange views and discuss state-of-the-art research on powered-two and powered-three wheeler safety.

A full description of the call for papers is available here

To learn more about the conference, please visit the IfZ website at www.ifz.de 

Motorcycle and moped registrations in key European markets surpass 2019 pre-pandemic levels
25 Jan 2022

Results for the full year 2021 show that the European motorcycle market continues to perform well, and is rebounding after the 2020 lockdowns trigged by the C-19 pandemic.

Motorcycle registrations in five of the largest European markets (i.e. France, Germany, Italy, Spain and UK) rose by 7.8% compared to 2020. A total of 949,400 motorcycles were registered in the main European markets in 2021, compared to 880,700 units in 2020.

Almost all the main national motorcycle markets registered volume gains in 2021. Results were the reflection of the different levels of market disruption in Spring 2020, linked to the sanitary crisis.

Italy was the largest European market with a total of 269,600 vehicles registered (with a staggering +23.6% growth on a year-on-year basis). France, the second largest market, grew +8.5% (206,950 motorcycles) whilst Germany, the third motorcycle market in Europe, saw a decrease of 9.7% (199,100 motorcycles), partly compensating the extremely positive results in 2020.

The Spanish and UK motorcycle markets grew by 8.0% and 10.2% respectively.

Registrations in the six European moped markets monitored by ACEM (i.e. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain) reached a total of 264,800 units. This figure represents a decrease of 5.6% compared to the same period in 2020.

Quote

Commenting on the current situation of the sector, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said:

“The registration figures for the year 2021 confirm the recovery of the market, after the impact of COVID-19 in the first months of last year. If we look at motorcycle and moped registrations combined, the key European markets have grown continuously between 2019 and 2021”.

“Even more, if we consider the moped and the motorcycle segment separately, each of them had a higher number of registrations in 2021 than in 2019. This upward trend for 3 consecutive years confirms the attractiveness of our vehicles is well present, even in the current context, both as urban mobility solutions and as leisure opportunities.

Documens available to download

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - December 2021 [PDF]

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - December 2021 [XLS]

ACEM - Statistical releases - FAQ [PDF]

ACEM - Statistical releases - Glossary [PDF]

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua. ACEM communications manager
E.  
T. +32 22 30 97 32

 

 

 

Sound limits for L-cat. vehicles - ACEM welcomes conclusions of cost benefit analysis by independent researchers
14 Dec 2021

Traffic noise is one of the four challenges identified and addressed in the ACEM “Vision 2030+ The motorcycle industry’s vision towards sustainable mobility in Europe”. The motorcycle industry accepts its share of the responsibility, and continues its proactive role in enhancing the effectiveness of noise emission regulations, whilst calling for a multi-stakeholder approach to prevent excessive motorcycle noise.

Scrutinising the 2017 “Euro 5 sound level limits of L-category vehicles” EC study

In 2016/2017, in the context of the revision of the EU type approval framework for L-category vehicles, the European Commission mandated a consortium of experts (Emisia, HSDAC, TNO, and Ricardo) to carry out a study investigating the potential for new sound limits for L-category vehicles at Euro 5 step, including a justified proposal with a Cost-Benefit Analysis of new sound limits options.

Considering the content of the report, the low number of vehicles tested and most importantly the relative lack of robustness of some of the conclusions, ACEM decided to task independent and recognised experts in both CBA and sound emissions to scrutinise the Cost-Benefit Analysis of the 2017 study.

The review performed in 2021 has been compiled in a scientific and objective manner, led by the Impact Assessment Institute (IAI), a Brussels-based foundation that impartially scrutinises the evidence for policy-making. The technical elements of the work have been conducted by Acustica, a specialist independent acoustics engineering consultancy firm.

In order to best support the work of the IAI and Acustica, ACEM also mandated Graz University of Technology to carry out an experimental study on the actual status of noise emitted from 8 powered-two wheelers. This study assessed the major noise sources according to their contribution to the overall level of pass-by noise for these vehicles (i.e. intake noise, engine noise, exhaust noise and overall noise) and was carried out by conducting measurements according to the standardized pass-by noise measurement procedure as regulated by UNECE-R 41.04.

ACEM takes

ACEM welcomes the conclusions of this independent scrutiny study as it demonstrates that a 2dB limit reduction would be technically and economically very challenging for manufacturers.

ACEM also trusts that this thorough work will once and for all put aside any ambition to reduce limits by 5dB, a scenario that is simply unrealistic.

ACEM looks forward to the conclusion of the work currently underway by Applus IDIADA and ACASA for the European Commission, to support the European Commission on the Impact Assessment of its future proposal for new sound level limits.

ACEM calls on all stakeholders, the Member States and the European Commission to review the IAI/Acustica and TU Graz reports, and on the European Commission, Applus IDIADA and ACASA, to duly consider their content and findings in order to avoid any shortcomings in the current policy-making preparatory phases that would lead to ill-advised policy recommendations.

Documents available to download

ACEM paper - ACEM welcomes conclusions of the EC Cost Benefit Analysis scrutiny study performed by independent researchers [PDF]

IAI and Acustica - CBA study on Euro 5 sound limits for L-category vehicles [PDF]

TUGraz - Experimental Noise Source Ranking [PDF]

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua. ACEM communications manager
E.  
T. +32 22 30 97 32

 

 

ACEM presents Vision 2030 +, its vision of the future of motorcycling in Europe, for 2030 and beyond
17 Nov 2021

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) hosted an online conference today at the occasion of the launch of its Vision 2030+, a set of strategic documents that outline the vision of the motorcycle industry for the future of motorcycling in Europe.

During the event, senior industry leaders and policy-makers from the European Parliament and the European Commission, the International Transport Forum and the World Health Organisation, discussed key issues for the future of motorcycling, such as the progressive decarbonisation of two-wheelers through electric propulsion and e-fuels, environmental performance improvements and ongoing efforts to further enhance motorcycling safety.

The speakers also touched upon the importance of sustainable economic growth for all, of standardisation and of cross-industry cooperation in platforms such as the Swappable Batteries Consortium and the Connected Motorcycle Consortium. Major European initiatives such as the Fit for 55 package, the future Regulation on the deployment of alternative fuels, the EU Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy, the coming Urban Mobility package were also part of the discussions.

Moderated by Aled Walker, “Future of Mobility” Leader at Deloitte, the online event attracted more than 900 people from 40 countries across the world. Participants were given the opportunity to engage in a live and open discussion with the panellists, using the #ACEMVision hashtag.

A recorded video of the event will be available in the coming days on the ACEM YouTube channel.

Quotes

ACEM Vice-President and Head of BMW Motorcycles, Dr. Markus Schramm:
“The Vision 2030+ that we are presenting today is the result of a long-term reflection at the highest levels of the European motorcycle industry. Vision 2030+ is about the future of mobility but also about the valuable contribution our industry can make to help Europe achieve its goals in areas such as industrial policy, decarbonisation and road safety”.

ACEM Secretary General, Antonio Perlot:
“Through this Vision 2030+, the motorcycle industry is gearing up to be a part of tomorrow’s European transport system, with advanced and increasingly sustainable products meeting different societal needs, such as personal mobility, leisure and last mile deliveries. Recognition and support by policymakers will be key to turn it into reality”.

Press Contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM Communications Manager
E.
T. +32 22 30 97 32

Documents available to download

Press release - ACEM presents Vision 2030 +, its vision of the future of motorcycling in Europe, for 2030 and beyond [PDF]

Press photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/acem_eu/albums/72157720222884790

Registrations of motorcycles continue increasing in the first nine months of 2021, exceeding pre-pandemic levels
03 Nov 2021

In the first nine months of 2021, motorcycle registrations in five of the largest European markets (i.e. France, Germany, Italy, Spain and UK) rose by 10.6% compared to the same period of 2020, totalling 792,819 units.

As expected, due to the different impact of COVID-19 disruptions in Spring 2020, almost all the main national markets registered volume gains in 2021 compared to the same period in 2020, with Italy showing the biggest increase (+27.9%). UK, Spain and France also performed well, seeing a 13.5%, 8.7% and 8.5% increase, respectively, while in Germany new registrations decreased slightly (-4.9%).

The moped segment remained overall steady in the six European moped markets covered (i.e. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain) compared to last year’s figures, reaching a total of 206,751 units in the first nine months of 2021 (-0,2% compared to the same period in 2020).

For a better comparison, considering pre-pandemic registration data, nine months into 2021 the European motorcycle market is showing signs of growth (792,819 units for January-September 2021 against 732,594 units for January-September 2019, representing a 8.2% increase). The moped market follows a similar trend: over the same period of time, with 206,751 units registered, representing a 6.8% increase on a year-on-year basis.

Quote

Commenting on the current situation of the sector, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said:

“In aggregate, the registration figures for the first nine months of 2021 confirm market recovery after the impact of COVID-19 in the first months of last year, which had overall put the sector under unprecedented stress.

More importantly, the latest data confirms that powered two-wheeler markets in Europe have globally surpassed pre-Covid-19 figures, with significant increases for motorcycles and for mopeds.”

“These interim 2021 results could have been even more positive, if it weren’t for the global semiconductor shortage affecting the automotive sector, and indirectly causing logistical delays for some motorcycle manufacturer’s production”.

“The last quarter figures will tell us if these trends are confirmed, but altogether, the numbers confirm that powered two-wheelers remain an attractive and convenient solution for mobility and leisure activities.”

Press contact

Ilaria Balloni. ACEM communications assistant
E.
T. +32 22 30 97 32

Documents available to donwload

ACEM Statistical Press Release - January - September 2021 [PDF]

ACEM Statistical Press Release - January - September 2021 [XLS]

ACEM - Statistical releases - FAQ [PDF]

ACEM - Statistical releases - Glossary [PDF]

Press statement ahead of G20 summit - “The clock is ticking, time to end tariffs once and for all!”
29 Oct 2021

Ahead of the G20 Heads of State & Government Summit to be held in Rome this weekend, 74 sectors unrelated to the Section 232 steel and aluminium dispute urge U.S. & EU leaders to reach an agreement to remove retaliatory tariffs, and the threat of tariffs, on products unrelated to the dispute.

Since June 2018, our industries, suppliers and supply chains have greatly suffered from the imposition or threat of tariffs stemming from the steel & aluminium dispute, which is wholly unrelated to our sectors. The last 18 months have been particularly challenging due to the COVID-19 crisis. We are only slowly starting to rebound from this crisis, while facing supply chain and logistics disruptions. Tariffs, and the threat of tariffs, are acting as major barriers at a time when we want to focus on creating jobs, growth and investments in both Europe and the U.S.

We welcome the EU’s decision not to impose the second tranche of rebalancing tariffs on 1 June to de-escalate the Section 232 dispute and the pledge made by the U.S. and EU to find a solution before 1 December. However, with only a month left before the 1 December deadline, we now need to see a permanent resolution of this dispute which has already lasted far too long. This will allow the EU and U.S. to strengthen the transatlantic trading relationship, which is of key importance to our industries, and to tackle pressing common challenges together, in a spirit of unity.

Documents available to download

Press statement - “The clock is ticking, time to end tariffs once and for all!” say unrelated sectors [PDF]

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua. ACEM communications manager
E.   
P. +32 02 23 0 97 32 

New Motor Insurance Directive, no compulsory European insurance for motorsport and related activities
25 Oct 2021

On 21 October, the European Parliament officially adopted the Provisional Agreement on the new Motor Insurance Directive, as agreed between Council and EP negotiators back in June. This is the final stretch of a lengthy process, started in April 2018, during which the Member States (Council) and the European Parliament worked out towards a compromise to finally revise the Motor Insurance Directive.

In the now adopted text (adopted by 689 votes in favour, 3 against and 4 abstentions) vehicles that do not enter public roads, such as motorcycles and cars that are exclusively used “in a restricted and demarcated area, with the purpose of and in a manner that the ordinary traffic, the public or any party unrelated to the activity cannot actually or potentially share the route that is being driven”, as well as electric assisted bicycles and electric kick-scooters, are excluded from the scope of the Directive. As far as motorsport activities are concerned, the scope of the Motor Insurance Directive has been clarified: vehicles intended exclusively for motorsports are excluded from the scope of the Directive too.

The Rapporteur of the text in the European Parliament, Dita Charanzová, emphasized that “today is a good day for all vehicle users in Europe and for anyone who unfortunately finds themselves injured in an accident. If your insurance company goes bankrupt, you will be protected. Harmonised claim history statements will mean no more excuses for discriminating against good drivers in the EU. We protected the uptake of e-bikes, confirming they do not require European insurance. And we ended the uncertainty around European motorsports, which can continue to race without impossible insurance requirements. These are concrete examples of a Europe that works for its citizens.”

ACEM welcomes the outcome of the revision as it should end unclarity and unrealistic over-regulation in this area and takes this opportunity to thank the Rapporteur for the excellent work on a very complex file. ACEM also salute the work of the other representatives of the motorcycle and motorsport and recreational sectors (FIM, FEMA, ATVEA and the FIA) and the good collaboration on this important topic.

The law now needs to be formally adopted by the Council, the other co-legislator, and published in the EU Official Journal. The new rules will start to apply 24 months after the entry into force, leaving time for the Member States to transpose the new Directive at national level.

Press contact

Ilaria Balloni. ACEM communications assistant.
E.
T. +32 22 30 97 32

ACEM to host online event on 17 November 2021 - “The ride to 2030 and beyond"
14 Oct 2021

The ACEM 2021 conference will bring together senior industry executives and leading policy-makers to discuss the motorcycle industry’s Vision for the future, the contribution of motorcycling to different forms of mobility in Europe, and how the sector fits within the current and future policies of the EU to the horizon 2030-2050.

Some of the topics that will be discussed include:

  • Motorcycling in cities, traffic congestion and local environmental policies
  • Regulation 168/2013 on type-approval of L-category vehicles and environmental standards
  • Engine efficiency and electrification of transport
  • Pollutant emissions (HC, NOx, PM)
  • GEAR 2030 and the future of the automotive sector in Europe
  • Latest market trends

Date and venue

24 January 2018

Renaissance Hotel. 19, Rue du Parnasse, Brussels

Programme of the event

 11:00 - 11:25 Keynote speeches 
 11:30 - 13:00 Panel discussion and Q&A session
 13:00 - 14:30 Walking lunch and networking coffee. Vehicle exhibition including electric prototypes developed by the RESOLVE consortium

 

Register now (mandatory to attend the event)

Keynote speakers

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Antti Peltomäki

Deputy Director-General
DG GROW
See Bio
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Stefan Pierer

ACEM President
CEO of KTM AG
See Bio

 

Panellists

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Bernd Lange

Member of the European Parliament
See Bio
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Joanna Szychowska

European Commission
DG GROW
See Bio
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Claire Depré

European Commission
DG MOVE
See Bio
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Greg Archer

Transport and Environment
Director for clean vehicles
See Bio
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Silvio Manicardi

FIM Europe
Second Deputy President
See Bio
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Erwin Segers

ACEM - Technical
affairs committee
See Bio
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Antonio Perlot

ACEM
Secretary General
See Bio

 

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua. ACEM Communications manager
+32 (0) 22 30 97 32

Contact us

European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers

Avenue de la Joyeuse Entrée, 1 B1040
Brussels Belgium

+32 (0)22 30 97 32

VAT BE0740.931.926

Transparency register - 02480451230-88