News

ACEM statistics - Market 2020: increase for Powered Two-Wheeler registrations in Europe
11 Feb 2021

2020 was a difficult year for the motorcycle sector in Europe. The national lockdowns imposed to contain the Covid-19 pandemic in Spring, when the motorcycle market usually picks up, caused a sharp drop, or even a halt, of registrations. Logistic chains were also heavily disrupted, at all levels, for manufacturers and suppliers, impacting production.

In aggregate, the largest European markets for motorcycles and mopeds recovered after Spring, reaching an overall increase of 4% compared to 2019 data, although with different results across the countries. Some as the Netherlands (+30.3%) and Germany (+27%) registered substantial increases, while others such as Italy (-5.3%) and Spain (-8.8%) still lag behind 2019 figures. Generally speaking, the market progressively recovered in the second semester, although positive figures in late 2020 are also partly linked to pre-registrations performed by importers and dealers, due to the end of validity of Euro 4 approvals (31 December 2020), for production falling outside end of series provisions.

Looking at full-year 2020 results, a total of 883,102 motorcycles were registered in 2020 in the five largest European markets (i.e. France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK) . This represents a marginal increase of 1% compared to 2019 numbers.

The largest motorcycle markets in Europe in 2020 were: Germany (220,304 units), Italy (218,027 units) and France (191,231 units).

The largest European moped markets (i.e., Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain) rose from 246,345 units in 2019 to 279,841 in 2020. This represents an increase of 13.6% on a year-on-year basis. The largest markets for mopeds in Europe were France (98,592 units), the Netherlands (84,732 units) and Germany (35,010 units).

Quote

Commenting on the 2020 registration figures, ACEM Secretary General Antonio Perlot said:

“To a large extent market recovery was due to the renewed attractiveness and convenience of powered two-wheelers for urban and peri-urban commuting, within a sanitary context in which public transportation has not been deemed a safe option by many citizens. Also, with reduced opportunities for holidaying abroad, most consumers having had to delay their purchase in Spring still opted for a new motorcycle later in the year, for leisure activities such as touring closer to home”.

“All in all, the motorcycle sector seems to have coped well with a very difficult year. However, looking ahead, the jury is still out, as many questions remain regarding the overall effects of the ongoing pandemic, on the EU economy and on mobility.”.

Correction

A previous version of this article stated that a total of 923,002 motorcycles and a total of 287,096 mopeds were registered in the largest European markets during 2020.
The correct figure is 883,102 units for the motorcycle segment and 279,841 for the moped segment. This article was amended on 17/02/21.

Documents available to download

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - December 2020 [PDF]

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - December 2020 [XLS]

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM communications manager

+32 496 52 65 17

U.S. and EU associations send letter to President Biden and President von der Leyen calling for suspension of tariffs
25 Jan 2021

Seventy-two U.S. and European associations representing a wide range of industries sent a letter today to President Joseph R. Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urging the immediate suspension of tariffs on sectors unrelated to the ongoing Trans-Atlantic trade disputes.

The coalition stated that suspending tariffs will alleviate economic harms and help re-establish a cooperative Trans-Atlantic trading relationship.

“The COVID-19 pandemic and the necessary closures of non-essential businesses continue to affect the global economy, including our sectors which support millions of jobs on both sides of the Atlantic,” said the group of U.S. and EU associations. “The ongoing EU-U.S. trade disputes and additional tariffs, which continue to plague Trans-Atlantic trade, have made a bad situation worse. With the damages we have suffered last year and are still suffering, the current situation cannot be allowed to go on any longer.”

The groups stated, “We believe the immediate suspension of these tariffs is a necessary and fundamental action, which will provide an economic stimulus at a time when it is needed most.”

They concluded, “Our industries support a constructive and flourishing trade and economic relationship between the U.S. and EU. Removal of these tariffs will provide the positive momentum to reset the important bilateral relationship and cooperative efforts to address global economic challenges. In addition, a shared commitment to avoid new additional tariffs will create the necessary certainty and stability needed to grow the Trans-Atlantic economy.”

Documents available to download

U.S. and EU associations joint letter to President Biden and President von der Leyen [PDF]

Press contact

For further information please contact:
Lisa Hawkins. Distilled Spirits Council
P. +1 (202) 256-1330

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

The Connected Motorcycle Consortium launches the Basic Specification C-ITS for Motorcycles
11 Dec 2020

Today, 11 December 2020, the Connected Motorcycle Consortium (CMC) launched the Basic Specification Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS) for motorcycles. The Consortium published a set of documents addressing various topics related to the introduction of C-ITS for motorcycles, such as: triggering conditions, localisation accuracy, algorithms and communicated data, as well as rider interface and antenna performance.

This breakthrough result is the outcome of all the efforts made over the years by CMC members, who have been working intensively to achieve this goal.

The CMC has made significant progress in this area through several studies, the development and evaluation of prototype bikes and thanks to meetings and discussions with different major stakeholders.

About CMC and the importance of connectivity for motorcycle safety

The CMC was created in 2016, building on the ACEM Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems. Motorcycle manufacturers, suppliers, researchers and associations joined forces with the objective to make motorcycles part of the future connected mobility.

ACEM, which is a member, contributed to the achievement of one of the main goals of the Consortium: to define common ‘Basic Specifications C-ITS systems for motorcycles’ and have them ready for publication by the end of 2020.

C-ITS allows road vehicles to communicate with each other, with roadside infrastructure and with other road users. C-ITS has a high potential, especially for motorcycles, to prevent accidents.

CMC has been working on around 30 applications, in which connectivity would allow to warn drivers and riders of potentially dangerous situations.

The integration of motorcycles in the C-ITS ecosystem will bring significant safety benefits and will lead to better integration of motorcycles in the transport system.

Quote

Claire Depré, Head of Unit Sustainable & Intelligent Transport, DG Mobility and Transport, EC has
congratulated CMC “for the work carried out, for bringing much more innovation and contributing to the safety of the overall transport system.”

For more information, please visit: https://www.cmc-info.net/.

The EU adopts new rules on end-of-series to help the motorcycle sector to cope with the COVID-19 outbreak
13 Nov 2020

The Official Journal of the European Union published today a special legislative measure modifying the end-of-series rules included in EU Regulation 168/2013 to help companies and dealers to cope with the effects of the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus.

2020 is a particular year for the sector, as the 31 December is set – by legislation – to be the final date by which vehicles placed on the market can be homologated as Euro 4. Under the new article 44a of EU Regulation 168/2013, manufacturers facing a problem of excess inventory of Euro 4 vehicles as a result of the COVID-19 lockdowns introduced across Europe can request the national authorities of the relevant Member State permission to place in the market their excess inventory until 31 December 2021. This new measure complements – as a derogation – the current end-of-series rule (article 44).

The national authority concerned will decide, within a month of receiving the request, whether to permit the registration of those end-of-series vehicles within its territory and in what number. Under this arrangement, a special entry qualifying the vehicles as “2021 - end-of-series” will be made on the certificate of conformity of the vehicles put into service.

The application of these specific and exceptional end-of-series measures will be restricted to the number of vehicles that were in stock at the moment of the national lockdowns. The number of vehicles benefiting from these provisions “should not exceed the number of Euro 4 L-category vehicles that were in stock on 15 March 2020”, which was estimated by industry experts at around 550,000 units for the entire EU market.

Why were the original end-of-series provisions insufficient?

EU type-approval rules foresee a standard flexibility mechanism called “end of series”, which allowed OEMs to continue making available on the market, register or enter into service a limited part of their stock of vehicles when moving from one Euro step to another. However, this standard flexibility clause was assessed as insufficient (limited to 10% of the past 2 years registrations per type) to address the problem of extra vehicle stock created by heavy manufacturing and distribution disruptions due to the sudden outbreak of the COVID-19 virus.

The end-of series (article 44a of EU Regulation 168/2013) complements the current rules on end-of-series (article 44 of the same EU Regulation), which grant the possibility to register a limited number of Euro 4 vehicles (up to 10% of past 2 years registrations, per OEM type) until 31 December 2022.

Outlook

  • The revised modified end-of-series will enter into force on 14 November 2020.
  • EU Member States must inform the European Commission on the number of vehicles for which end-of-series status has been granted under the new “article 44a” by 1 July 2021.

Documents available to download

EU Regulation 2020/1694 amending EU Regulation 168/2013 as regards specific measures on L-category end-of-series vehicles in response to the COVID-19 pandemic [PDF]

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua. ACEM communications manger
E.
M. 32 (0)2 23 0 97 32

Registrations of motorcycles and mopeds in largest European markets slightly rose again
05 Nov 2020

Between January and September 2020, motorcycle registrations in the five largest European markets (i.e. France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK, i.e. about 80% of the EU + UK motorcycle market) reached 708,503 units. This volume of registrations represents a decrease of 3.3% in comparison to the first nine months of 2019.

The current registration trends in the motorcycle segment, however, show an improvement in comparison to the first six months of the year, when the motorcycle registrations in the main European markets had fallen on average by 17%. This was due to the paralysis of commercial activity, caused by the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus (see the previous press releases here and here).

The moped segment looks in better shape, with registrations in the largest European markets (i.e. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain) reaching a total of 205,688 units during the first nine months of 2020. This represents an increase of 6.4% in comparison to the same period of 2019.

Quote

Commenting on the current situation of the sector, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said: “The registration figures for the first 9 months of the year show that the sector is slowly starting to recover from the very difficult months of March and April 2020 that had put the sector under unprecedented financial stress. The situation remains delicate, and the uncertainty created by the COVID-19 outbreak is not over yet”.

“That said, there are reasons to be optimistic. The recent decision by the EU institutions to extend the cut-off deadline for selling Euro 4 models until 31 of December 2021, will certainly help the motorcycle industry to better cope with this crisis”.

“Also, the COVID-19 crisis creates opportunities for policy-makers to rethink about local transport policy. The crisis has clearly shown that overreliance on public transport can create vulnerabilities in cities' transport systems. A preferable better approach would be to find a balance between different transport modes. Better integration of two-wheelers in the transport mix, for example, can reduce the present risks of operating public transport networks at full capacity".

Note

The new "COVID-19 measure" (article 44a, EU Regulation 168/2013) will complement the current rules on End of Series (art. 44, EU Regulation 168/2013), which grant the possibility to register a limited amount of Euro 4 vehicles (up to 10% of past 2 years sales, per OEM type) until 31/12/2022. The agreement between the European Parliament and the Council is pending of final adoption and publication in the EU official journal.

Documents available to download

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - September 2020 [xls]

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - September 2020 - EN [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical releases - FAQ [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical releases - Glossary [pdf]

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM communications manager

+32 496 52 65 17

ACEM welcomes positive vote of the Council and Parliament on  the revision of Euro 4 “end of series” provisions
20 Oct 2020

The motorcycle industry in Europe welcomes the recent decision by the Council of the EU and the European Parliament to endorse the European Commission’s proposal adapting the rules on end-of-series vehicles in EU Regulation 168/2013. This amendment will give motorcycle dealers and companies across Europe, which have been affected by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the possibility to sell their stock of Euro 4 vehicles until 31 December 2021.

The proposal supported by the two legislative bodies will cover only the vehicles that were in stock at the moment when national lockdowns were introduced across the EU. More specifically, the amount of vehicles benefiting from the revised end-of-series measures will not exceed the number of Euro 4 L-category vehicles in stock in the EU on 15 March 2020, which was estimated by industry experts at around 550,000 units.

A much-needed revision of end of series

Under EU type-approval rules, all Euro 4 motorcycles needed to be registered before the application of the environmental Euro 5 step on 1 January 2021. This requirement was impossible to achieve as a result of the drop on sales caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

EU type-approval rules foresaw a flexibility mechanism called “end of series”, which allowed manufacturers to continue making available on the market, register or enter into service a limited part of their stock of Euro 4 vehicles. However, this flexibility clause was not sufficient to address the problem of extra vehicle stock created by the sudden outbreak of the virus.

The political agreement reached by the two European legislators will help motorcycle companies and dealers to better face these troublesome times.

It is worth emphasizing that the amendment to the end-of-series provisions in EU Regulation 168/2013 will not affect the original timeline foreseen for the introduction of the Euro 5 standard, i.e. 1 January 2021 for existing moped and motorcycle models type-approved before the 1 January 2020.

Quote

Commenting on the political agreement reached by the EU institutions, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said:

“ACEM welcomes the positive vote of the Council and the European Parliament on this important legislative file. The amendment to EU Regulation 168/2013 will help those manufacturers in need of specific support and will help to bridge the gap towards Euro 5. The new rules will also provide a much needed ‘safety net’ for the entire sector, including downstream dealerships, and will prevent the unnecessary scrapping of Euro 4 vehicles”.

“The motorcycle sector thanks European Commission’s President von der Leyen as well as Commissioner Breton and his team at DG GROW for their decisive political dealership and swift response to this crisis”.

“Over the coming the months, ACEM but most importantly – as since day one – the sector national associations will continue working constructively with public authorities to ensure that the new end-of-series rules support manufacturing in Europe and dealerships in these challenging times”.

Documents available to download

ACEM press release - ACEM welcomes positive vote of the Council and European Parliament on the revision of Euro 4 “end of series” provisions [PDF]

Press contact

Ilaria Balloni. ACEM communications assistant
E.
M. +32 22 30 16 83

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers welcomes four new members
14 Oct 2020

On 22 September 2020, the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) held its 30th General Assembly. The event was held online, due to the COVID-19 limitations applicable to large meetings.

The ACEM General Assembly approved the acceptance of Zero Motorcycles as a new guest member of the association. Zero Motorcycles is an American manufacturer of electric vehicles that produces high performance electric motorcycles. Since 2006, when the first prototypes were produced in Santa Cruz, California, Zero has rapidly grown into an internationally known motorcycle company.

Further to this, three trade associations representing the motorcycle sector at national level joined ACEM: the Associação Automóvel de Portugal (ACAP), the Hungarian Vehicle Importers Association (MGE) and the Association of Automobile Importers (SDA, Czech Republic).

Quote

Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said: "I am delighted to welcome Zero Motorcycles, ACAP, MGE and SDA to the ACEM family, and look forward to start working with their representatives soon. With the addition of these new members, ACEM will now represent a total of 19 manufacturing companies and 20 national industry associations across Europe”.

Press contact

Ilaria Balloni. ACEM communications assistant
E.
M. +32 22 30 16 83

ACEM launches “The Safe Ride to the Future 2.0”, the Motorcycle Industry’s Safety Strategy
01 Oct 2020

Today, the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers, ACEM, presented “The safe ride to the future 2.0”, the motorcycle industry’s safety strategy.

“The safe ride to the future 2.0” sets the motorcycle sector’s vision for Horizon 2030 in areas such as advanced safety technology and connectivity. It also elaborates on the industry’s initiative to increase the quality of post-licence motorcycle training in Europe through a European Training Quality Label.
The policy document also describes how the motorcycle sector is working with other European and national stakeholders to promote the implementation of transport policies that encompass motorcycle safety.

The motorcycle industry supports the adoption, by policymakers, of a Safe System approach towards motorcycling, simultaneously addressing human, vehicle and road infrastructure factors. This, combined with a stronger engagement with civil society and the public and private sectors, will result in further improvements in motorcycle safety.

Quotes

Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said: “There are more than 34 million motorcycles, scooters and mopeds in use across Europe. These bring considerable benefits, such as affordable mobility, reduced traffic congestion levels, access to jobs and services, as well as enjoyment through activities such as leisure mobility, sports and tourism. The motorcycle industry calls upon national, regional and local policymakers to embrace inclusive motorcycle mobility and safety policies, benefiting users as well as the rest of society.”.

Adina Vălean, European Commissioner for Transport, welcomed the industry strategy: “We commend the commitment of ACEM, and I welcome the motorcycle industry’s road safety strategy. The EU committed to reduce road fatalities and serious injuries by 50% by 2030. To reach this ambitious target, we are implementing the Safe System approach which addresses all important areas for road safety: infrastructure, vehicles, driving behaviour and post-crash care. The European Motorcycle Training Quality Label has been strongly supported by the European Commission. Indeed, high-quality safety training is a fundamental element in the Safe System approach. We must continue working together towards better road safety for all on Europe’s roads”.

Matthew Baldwin, European Coordinator for Road Safety, said: “This is great work from ACEM and we need more strong stakeholder involvement like this at all levels. This is an efficient way to deliver well-tailored safety initiatives that are relevant to the motorcycle community. We will continue to work closely with the industry and are very grateful for their determination to help us meet the safety targets agreed within the EU and of course now set globally at UN level for the next decade”.

For more information on this initiative and to read the full strategy, please visit the dedicated brand-new website: https://roadsafetystrategy.acem.eu.

Press contact

For further information please contact:
Ilaria Balloni. ACEM communications assistant
E.
P. +32 22 30 97 32

Documents available to download

Press release - ACEM launches “The Safe Ride to the Future 2.0”, the Motorcycle Industry’s Safety Strategy - EN [PDF]

Press release - ACEM launches “The Safe Ride to the Future 2.0”, the Motorcycle Industry’s Safety Strategy - DE [PDF]

Press release - ACEM launches “The Safe Ride to the Future 2.0”, the Motorcycle Industry’s Safety Strategy - ES [PDF]

Press release - ACEM launches “The Safe Ride to the Future 2.0”, the Motorcycle Industry’s Safety Strategy - FR [PDF]

Press release - ACEM launches “The Safe Ride to the Future 2.0”, the Motorcycle Industry’s Safety Strategy - IT [PDF]

Photo - Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General , and Matthew Baldwin, European Coordinator for Road Safety [JPG]

Industry letter to President von der Leyen “The notification deadline for the SCIP database must be postponed”
21 Sep 2020

On Monday 21st September, a coalition of 40 industry organisations wrote a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen calling for decisive action to solve implementation issues within the EU Waste Framework Directive (WFD), specifically the Substances of Concern in Products (SCIP)database.

The signatories representing a very significant part of the European Economy request urgent resolution of implementation issues in a database designed to support the circular economy as expressed in the European Green Deal. This “SCIP” database is required by Article 9.1 of the updated Waste Framework Directive.

The signatories of this letter ask President von der Leyen to take immediate action to:

  1. Postpone the SCIP notification deadline of 5th January 2021 by at least 12 months after the database will be finalised;
  2. Conduct a study on the usefulness, feasibility, proportionality and impact of the database, and;
  3. Instruct the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to adapt the SCIP database according to the outcome of such study.

ECHA failed to finalize the database development to the required timescale of January 2020, preventing companies from developing, testing and adapting their own systems to meet the January 2021 notification deadline.

Signatories have serious concerns regarding the workability, proportionality and value of the SCIP database, expressed repeatedly for the last two years, but their concerns have not been resolved by the European Commission, nor by ECHA.

Contrary to the EU Better Regulation principles, Article 9.1 was added to the revised WFD during the final stage of the co-decision process without any prior stakeholder consultation or impact assessment. A proper impact study should help shape the way forward to deliver on the EU ambition for a circular European Economy.

Documents available to download

Press release - Industry letter to President von der Leyen “The notification deadline for the SCIP database must be postponed” [pdf]

Registrations of motorcycles and mopeds in largest European markets still lag behind 2019 figures
04 Aug 2020

Between January and June 2020, motorcycle registrations in the five largest European markets (i.e. France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK, i.e. about 80% of the EU + UK motorcycle market) reached 413,200 units. This volume of registrations represents a decrease of 17% in comparison to the first six months of 2019.

The current registration trends in the motorcycle segment, however, can be considered a relative improvement in comparison to the first four months of the year. Indeed, during that period motorcycle registrations in the main European markets had fallen on average by 32.7% as a result of the paralysis of commercial activity that followed the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus (see the previous press release here).

Looking at the moped segment, registrations in the largest European markets (i.e. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain) during the first 6 months of 2020 reached a total of 110,600 units. This represents a decrease of 6.9% in comparison to the same period of 2019.

Quote

Commenting on the current situation of the sector, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said: “Motorcycle and moped registration volumes remain considerably below 2019 levels, due to the impact of Spring lockdown measures. The partial rebounding of the market since the restart of activities shows that consumers consider our vehicles as excellent mobility and leisure options, in the current context”.

“Nevertheless, it is still early to draw any meaningful conclusions about the short-term evolution of the market and operations within the sector, especially given the unforeseeable evolution of COVID-19. The second half of the year will be crucial - the fact remains that a large number of dealers across Europe, in particular in most hit markets, still experience considerable financial pressure. They also face the challenge of handling excess inventory of Euro 4 models which, should there be no decisive action from the EU institutions, will become unsellable due to regulatory changes”.

“This is why the motorcycle industry in Europe renews its call on policy-makers to support OEMs, dealerships, and suppliers in these difficult times, through an extension of the deadline to sell Euro 4 vehicles, and targeted financial measures at national level”.

Documents available to download

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - June 2020 [xls]

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - June 2020 - EN [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical releases - FAQ [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical releases - Glossary [pdf]

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM communications manager

+32 496 52 65 17

Notes for editors

Statistical releases in 2020

 

As of 2020 ACEM statistical releases will cover:

  • The largest European markets for motorcycles (i.e. Italy, France, Germany Spain, UK). These countries account for about 80% of motorcycle registrations in the EU + UK block.
  • The largest European moped markets (i.e. France, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Belgium, and Spain). These countries account about 80% of moped registrations in the EU + UK block.

 

About ACEM

 

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: BMW Motorrad, Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, KYMCO, MV Agusta, Peugeot Scooters, Piaggio, Polaris Industries, Qooder, Renault, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, Triumph Motorcycles and Yamaha.

ACEM also represents 17 motorcycle industry associations in 16 different European countries.

PIONEERS project - A new video explains the objectives and outlines the different phases
13 Jul 2020

PIONEERS (Protective Innovations of New Equipment for Enhanced Rider Safety) is a Horizon 2020 project that aims at reducing the number of motorcycle fatalities and severely injured by increasing the safety, performance, comfort and usage rate of personal protective equipment and the development of new on-board safety devices.

It involves universities and research institutes, industrial partners, protective equipment manufacturers, motorcycle manufacturers and automobile clubs.

Now a video, available on PIONEERS YouTube channel, provides a complete overview of the project’s activities and targets.

Media

Watch the video on YouTube

More information

http://pioneers-project.eu/

Hit by an unprecedented decline in registrations, Europe’s motorcycle industry calls for support from the EC
25 May 2020

Motorcycle registrations across Europe dropped steeply in March and April in comparison to the same period in 2019 as a result of the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak. With dealerships closed and economies under lockdown, commercial activity has been virtually paralysed.

Total registrations in the 5 largest motorcycle markets (i.e. France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK) fell by 39.6% in March 2020, compared to the same month of 2019. The situation deteriorated even further in April 2020, when combined registrations in the largest markets fell by 74.9%, with some countries contracting by 84% to 96%.

The moped segment was equally impacted. The largest European moped markets (i.e. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland and Spain) fell by 37.9% in March 2020 on a year-on-year basis. In April 2020, moped registrations in the same markets decreased 55.1%.

Due to the seasonal nature of the market with sales concentrated in the spring, this impact of the outbreak in March and April has placed European dealerships under considerable financial pressure. In addition dealers are now holding an excess of Euro 4 vehicles, which were being readied for the Spring season but which may become unsellable due to regulatory changes.

Europe’s motorcycle industry welcomes the various economy wide support measures that Member States and the Commission have put in place. The only additional request from the sector is for the Commission to extend the period in which Euro 4 vehicles can be sold, to avoid dealers being left with hundreds of thousands of unsellable products.

Quote

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

“With the progressive restart of activity, data for the next three months will give us a clearer overview of the final impact of the COVID-19 virus. Nevertheless, it is already clear that 2020 will be a very difficult year for the sector, with extraordinary disruptions on the activity of manufacturers, dealerships and suppliers”.

“ACEM and its members are working together with EU and national administrations to find a solution to the problem of hundreds of thousands of Euro 4 vehicles excess stock. This will require reviewing relevant legislation to ensure that motorcycle dealerships across Europe can recover from the effect of the COVID-19 crisis as soon as possible”.

Documents available to download

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - April 2020 [xls]

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - April 2020 - EN [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical releases - FAQ [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical releases - Glossary [pdf]

Press contact

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



NOTES FOR EDITORS

Statistical releases in 2020

As of 2020 ACEM statistical releases will cover:

• The largest European markets for motorcycles (i.e. Italy, France, Germany Spain, UK). These countries account for about 80% of motorcycle registrations in the EU + UK block.

• The largest European moped markets (i.e. France, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Poland and Spain). These countries account about 87% of moped registrations in the EU.

 

About ACEM

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: BMW Motorrad, Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, KYMCO, MV Agusta, Peugeot Scooters, Piaggio, Polaris Industries, Qooder, Renault, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, Triumph Motorcycles and Yamaha.

ACEM also represents 17 motorcycle industry associations in 16 different European countries.

 

ANCMA and EICMA launch campaign to encourage two-wheeler use to cope with deconfinement mobility challenges
08 May 2020

#usaledueruote, “use two-wheelers”, is the claim of the campaign launched by Confindustria ANCMA (the Italian national association of bicycles, motorcycles and accessories manufacturers) and EICMA, the most important international show in the sector.

The whole sector in Italy comes together and launches a message to raise awareness on the responsible use of two wheels to cope with mobility in the so called ‘Phase 2’.

The campaign was launched on 7 May on the digital platforms of the promoting organisations and manufacturers, together with the logo of the initiative and a video. In the coming weeks, it will further develop on the theme “Mettiamoci in sella” (let’s saddle up).

Quote

The ANCMA President, Paolo Magri, said “Bicycles, scooters and motorbikes guarantee natural social distancing, greater environmental sustainability, faster travelling times over short and long distances and easy parking; they are also well suited to intermodal transport and have a lower impact on urban traffic, which is also severely affected by the scaling down of public transport.”

“Two-wheeled vehicles,” added Magri, “were a collective symbol of a new start after the Second World War and they can be that once again. Ours is not only an initiative to protect a sector which has been severely affected by the lockdown, and for which we are continuing to ask the government for urgent forms of incentives for purchase, it is also addressed to those who own and use two-wheels, to potential users or simply to citizens who have to dust off an unused bike or motorbike in their garage.”

Press contact

Alessandro Re

ANCMA press officer
+39 33 97 24 65 02

Media

Watch the video on YouTube

Logo - White

Logo - Black

Documents available to download

Press release - Phase 2, Confindustria ANCMA and EICMA launch #usaledueruote campaign - EN [PDF]

Press release - Fase 2, Confindustria ANCMA ed EICMA lanciano la campagna #usaledueruote - IT [PDF]

ACEM statistics - Next market registrations figures to be issued in late May
04 May 2020

Due to the COVID-19 situation, ACEM will delay the release of its quarterly motorcycle and moped registration data. The challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, including gathering and analyzing national data, mean that some additional time for quality checks is needed.

The ACEM statistics team is working to release the market data as soon as possible. The upcoming statistical release will include registration figures for the first 3 months of 2020, as well as for April 2020. This release will be issued at the end of this month.

Commenting on the statistical release, ACEM Secretary General, Antonio Perlot, said: “Inevitably the disruption caused by the pandemic means we will need some extra time to quality check some of our data before publication. The pandemic has also created some difficulties for some of our data suppliers”.

“As we anticipated, many European markets have been negatively affected by the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus. Detailed registration data together with our assesment of the situation will be made available as soon as possible”.

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM communications manager

+32 496 52 65 17

The International Motorcycle Manufacturers Association appoints Rakesh Sharma as President
23 Apr 2020

The International Motorcycle Manufacturers Association (IMMA) has elected Rakesh Sharma, Bajaj Auto Executive Director, as the new president for a 2-year mandate.

The decision was taken by IMMA General Assembly, held by correspondence on 21 April due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Mr Rakesh Sharma joined Bajaj Auto in October 2007 as President (International Business) and is currently the Executive Director. He is a member of the Board of Commissioners of PT Bajaj Auto Indonesia, a subsidiary of Bajaj Auto Ltd and the Chairman of the Exports Council of SIAM, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers.

Mr Sharma previously held office as Vice-President in IMMA, elected in May 2019. In his new role, he succeeds Mr Johannes Loman, Director of PT Astra International Tbk and Executive Vice President Director PT Astra Honda Motor (AHM) Indonesia, and President of FAMI - Federation of Asian Motorcycle Industries and President of AISI, the Indonesian Motorcycle Industry Association.

Quote

On being elected, Mr Sharma said “Indeed these are very challenging times and I take up this prestigious appointment fully conscious of the role the motorcycle industry has to play both as a key industry and a responsible member of society. Whilst we are facing numerous difficulties, we can also see that in due course new but different opportunities will emerge. The role of national, regional and global associations such as SIAM and IMMA is now more important than ever and we will work hard to ensure we play a strong and responsible role in the recovery.’’

Mr Loman stated, ‘’IMMA aims to advance the sustainable growth of the two-wheeler industry in every region of the world. We are fortunate to have Mr Sharma with his wide international experience in the two and three- wheeler industry, to steer IMMA through the difficult times and be the trusted global voice of motorcycle manufacturers. I look forward to working with Mr Sharma in my role as FAMI representative in IMMA’s Steering Committee’’.

Antonio Perlot, Secretary General of the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM), said: “I first of all wish to thank Mr. Loman for his commitment during the FAMI Presidency, where many challenges were identified as benefiting from exchanges and coordination within IMMA. We congratulate Mr. Sharma on his election and we wish him success in continuing to drive IMMA forward, in the technical and policy areas, in particular within current extraordinary circumstances linked to COVID-19.”

Link

Read the news on IMMA website

About IMMA

The International Motorcycle Manufacturers Association (IMMA) represents the powered two- and three-wheelers manufacturing industry at global level. It promotes mobility through safe, sustainable motorcycling by advocating the development and harmonisation of technical regulations affecting the motorcycle industry and by advancing inclusive policies for motorcycling.

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM communications manager

+32 496 52 65 17

ACEM press statement - Impacts of the COVID-19 crisis on the motorcycle sector
23 Mar 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented crisis that is inflicting considerable damage to the health of citizens across the world and threatening global economic stability. Policy makers at the European level and national authorities are working together to address these two major challenges. Industrial and retail sectors are already severely impacted, including those within the motorcycle industry.

Every effort is being taken by the motorcycle industry to protect our employees and customers. Public health and safety is the number one priority of us all; notwithstanding this need, preservation of the European economy and the protection of jobs are also paramount.

The current situation is particularly challenging for motorcycle dealers and manufacturers. The ongoing pandemic has severely disrupted supply chains, manufacturing operations and the development of new Euro 5 models. This disruption, in addition to virus containment measures taken in factories, has led to a near complete standstill of the industry in many countries.

The recent lock-down and stringent measures to contain the pandemic have also paralyzed motorcycle retail business activity. This is progressively affecting all European markets, creating unsettling uncertainties for the motorcycle sector. The COVID-19 crisis is placing dealerships, most of which are small family-run operations, under extreme financial hardship. Immediate cashflow concerns will need to be addressed through support measures in every impacted country.

Against this background, the motorcycle industry urgently calls on the European Commission and national administrations to swiftly adopt all necessary measures to help the sector come through this unprecedented crisis. The motorcycle sector is ready to work with all policy makers to achieve this aim, protecting the 300,000 jobs linked to this industry.

Quote

Stefan Pierer, ACEM President and CEO of KTM AG, said:

“The COVID-19 crisis will test our ability to cope simultaneously with a major health and economic crisis. ACEM members are fully cooperating with authorities to slow the spread of COVID-19. We take care that our employees and partners are safe, and count on policy-makers to find solutions in the challenging weeks and months that are ahead of us in order to break the wave that may otherwise hit the sector”.

Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said:

“ACEM is engaging with our partners in the EU and national administrations to find solutions to this unprecedented challenge. Things are evolving rapidly and ACEM is closely monitoring the situation, in tight cooperation with industry associations across Europe and vehicle manufacturers. We call on policy-makers to work together and adopt the necessary measures to protect our citizens and economies in the short and longer term”.

Documents available to download

ACEM press statement - COVID-19 impacts on the motorcycle sector [PDF]

Press contact

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

Motorcycles registrations in the European Union increased by 8% in 2019
11 Feb 2020

A total of 1,079,524 motorcycles were registered in 2019 in the EU according to the final figures published today by the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM). This represents an increase of 8% compared to 2018 numbers. The largest motorcycle markets in Europe in 2019 were: Italy (231,712 units), France (197,470 units) and Spain (177,037 motorcycles). Motorcycle figures include both two- and three-wheeled vehicles with an engine capacity above 50cc as well as electric motorcycles.

Moped registrations in the EU also grew by 11%

The European moped market rose from 272,338 units in 2018 to 303,152 in 2019. This represents an increase of 11.3%. The largest markets for mopeds in Europe were: France (91,043), Netherlands (62,340), Belgium (27,073), Germany (25,247) and Italy (21,133).

Registrations of electric motorcycles and mopeds increased in 2019 in the EU

In addition, the European electric motorcycle market grew from 6,901 units in 2018 to 14,111 units in 2019 (+104.48%). However, it remains at niche levels. Only 1.3% of all motorcycles registered in Europe in 2019 were electric. Registrations of electric mopeds in the EU increased substantially from 39,940 units in 2018 to 59,776 units in 2019 (+49.7%). The electric quadricycle market dropped from 3,184 units to 2,816 (-11.6%).

Quote

Commenting on the latest market trends ACEM Secretary General Antonio Perlot said:

“The increase in the market experienced in 2019 exceeds all expectations. Ten years after the crisis, which had also seriously impacted the motorcycle sector, it is confirmation of the return to a general, positive attitude towards consumption.

It also shows that the interest in motorcycles and mopeds is growing, both for commuting and leisure. This is partly a reflection of the move to the EURO 4 environmental standard which, by now, has been fully completed. With the recent application of the EURO 5 and the related launch on the market of new motorcycle models, this positive trend should be expected to continue in 2020.

The growth in the moped segment also confirms a renewed interest in light urban mobility solutions, particularly as regards the niche electric vehicle sector. Overall, due to the replacement of older vehicles in the fleet, this will improve the contribution of motorcycles and mopeds to cleaner, more efficient mobility.”.

Documents available to download

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - December 2019 [xls]

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - December 2019 - EN [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - December 2019 - FR [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - December 2019 - ES [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - December 2019 - IT [pdf]

Press contact

For further information or to receive future market updates, news or press releases please contact:
Ilaria Balloni. ACEM communications assistant
E.
P. +32 22 30 97 32

New Euro 5 environmental standard for motorcycles and mopeds to enter into force in 2020
16 Dec 2019

As of 1 January 2020, all new type-approved motorcycles and mopeds sold in the European Union (EU) and the European Free Trade Area (EFTA) will have to meet the new Euro 5 environmental standard that will replace the current Euro 4 specification.

For existing moped and motorcycle models type-approved before the 1 January 2020, Euro 5 will become mandatory as of the first day of 2021. This brings the pollutant emissions of L-category vehicles (i.e. mopeds, motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles) to the same level as Euro 6 cars.

Improving environmental performance through vehicle technology

Technical innovation in the motorcycle industry has played a key role in progressively lowering vehicle emissions. Since the introduction of the Euro 1 standard for motorcycles and mopeds in 1999, pollutant emissions have been drastically reduced. Combined emissions of hydrocarbons (HC) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) have gone down by 96.6%, whilst carbon monoxide (CO) emissions have been reduced by 92.3%.

The Euro 5 environmental standard in detail

Under the new Euro 5 standard, tailpipe emissions of mopeds, motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles will not be allowed to exceed 1,000 mg/km of carbon monoxide (CO), 100 mg/km total hydrocarbons (THC), 68 mg/km non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHC), 60 mg/km of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and 4.5 mg/km of particulate matter (PM). These Euro 5 tailpipe pollutant emission limits are the same as those of Euro 6 for cars.

The new Euro 5 standard that will replace the previous one (Euro 4) will become mandatory for all new type-approved motorcycles and mopeds as of 1 January 2020. Some niche segments (i.e. enduro and trial motorcycles, three-wheeled mopeds designed for utility purposes and light quadrimobiles) have been granted additional lead time. These niche products will have to comply with the new Euro 5 tailpipe emissions limits as of 1 January 2024.

Durability provisions and evaporative emission levels are equally becoming more stringent. Another important innovation is the progressive introduction of a second stage on-board diagnostic (OBD), allowing advanced identification and flagging of malfunction and deterioration of emission control systems.

Quote

Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said:

“From a supply side perspective, vehicle technology has been instrumental in improving the environmental performance of motorcycles. ACEM members have invested heavily in research and product development to develop Euro 5 compliant motorcycles equipped with technologies such as 3-way catalysts with oxygen sensor controls, complex electronic engine management systems, advanced fuel injection and variable valve timing and lift technologies”.

“As a result of this, the environmental performance of Euro 5 motorcycles will be equivalent to that of Euro 6 cars. ACEM sees this fitting within the vision of the recent European Green Deal of achieving less polluting transport, especially in cities, and further enabling the contribution of our range of vehicles to a multimodal transport system”.

Press contact

For further information or to receive future market updates, news or press releases please contact:
Ilaria Balloni. ACEM communications assistant
E.
P. +32 22 30 97 32

Documents available to download

ACEM Press release - New Euro 5 environmental standard [PDF]

Industry4Europe joint paper. European industries unite to call for an ambitious EU industrial strategy
26 Nov 2019

European Union, 26 November 2019 – Industry4Europe, a coalition of 149 sector Associations representing the diversity of the EU’s industrial base, today published its new Joint Paper ‘A long-term strategy for Europe’s industrial future: from words to action’. Through cross-sectoral recommendations, the Industry4Europe coalition contributes to the future EU industrial strategy announced by European Commission President-Elect Ursula von der Leyen.

The Joint Paper presents concrete industrial policy proposals in seven priority fields; business-friendly policy environment, sustainability at business core, upgraded skills and training, enhanced research and innovation, investment and improved access to finance, reinforcement of the European Single Market and strengthened trade and international market access.

The 149 industry organisations behind Industry4Europe stand united in their repeated calls for an ambitious and long-term EU industrial strategy that must help Europe remain a hub for a leading, smart, innovative and sustainable industry, that provides quality jobs and benefits all Europeans and future generations.

“With its skilled workforce and its global reputation for quality and sustainability, our industry is vital for Europe and its prosperity”, said Philippe Citroën, Coordinator of the Industry4Europe Coalition. “The European Union needs an ambitious industrial strategy now to compete with other global regions that have already put industry at the very top of their political agenda. It is essential for a horizonal, coherent and focused industrial policy to support the backbone of the European economy and which protects citizens and the global environment”.

European Commission President-Elect von der Leyen has said clearly in her Political Guidelines for the upcoming mandate that she would, “put forward my plan for a future-ready economy, our new industrial strategy”. The Industry4Europe coalition welcomes this ambition and hopes that its explicit policy recommendations will find a central place in any comprehensive long-term industrial strategy that comes out of the EU institutions.

The Industry4Europe coalition therefore looks forward to working with all policymakers – notably the designated Executive Vice-Presidents Valdis Dombrovskis and Margrethe Vestager and Commissioner Thierry Breton – to discuss and implement such an ambitious and much-needed EU industrial strategy.

Documents available to download

Press Release -  European industries unite to call for an ambitious EU industrial strategy

Joint paper - A long-term strategy for Europe’s industrial future: from words to action

For more information

Jean-Philippe Peuziat

Coordination of the Industry4Europe Coalition

E:

P: + 32 2 642 23 25

Twitter: @Industry4Europe

LinkedIn: industry4europe

Website: www.industry4europe.eu

Motorcycle registrations in the EU up by 8.5% during the first nine months of 2019
07 Nov 2019

Registrations of motorcycles in the EU reached 912,972 units during the first 9 months of 2019, according to the latest estimate by the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM). This represents an increase of 8.5% compared to the same period in 2018.

Italy remains the largest European motorcycle market with 198,119 units (a 6.2% increase on a year-on-year basis), followed by France (161,822 motorcycles, +11.6%), Germany (151,241 motorcycles, +7.5%), Spain (136,543 motorcycles, +10.2%) and the UK (84,591 motorcycles, +1.7%).

Motorcycle registrations increased in all EU countries.

Moped registrations in the EU continue increasing

The European moped market reached 243,341 units during the first 9 months of 2019. This represents an increase of about 14.8% compared to the registration levels in the first nine months of 2018 (211,966 units). The largest markets for mopeds in Europe were France (70,290 units), the Netherlands (50,232 units), Belgium (21,419 units), Germany (21,069 units) and Poland (16,776 units).

Registrations of electric vehicles in the EU up by 61.3%

Combined registrations of electric mopeds, motorcycles and quadricycles reached 58,295 units during the first nine months of 2019. This represents a substantial increase of 61.3% compared to the registration levels in the same period of 2018 (36,150 units).

Most of the electric L-category vehicles registered in 2019 are mopeds (46,858 units), followed by motorcycles (9,386 units) and a much smaller number of quadricycles (about 2,051 units).

About ACEM

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: 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.

 ACEM also represents 18 motorcycle industry associations in 15 different European countries.

Documents available to download

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - September 2019 [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - September 2019 [xls]

 

Press contact

For further information or to receive future market updates, news or press releases please contact:
Ilaria Balloni. ACEM communications assistant
E.
P. +32 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