News

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 

ICCT TRUE report: true or not? ACEM comments on the ICCT report on pollutant emissions in Paris
24 Oct 2019

The International Clean Council on Transportation (ICCT) recently published a study on vehicle emissions in Paris, on behalf of the Real Urban Emissions (TRUE) Initiative . The study was mandated by the City Council of Paris and concludes that emissions from motorcycles in that city are higher than those of petrol cars.

ACEM seriously questions the reliability of the remote sensing technology used by the ICCT to measure real urban emissions from the wide range of motorcycles and other L-category vehicles. Whilst this limitation is to some extent acknowledged in the report, which reads: “the smaller engines used in these vehicles result in a smaller plume signal relative to vehicles with larger engines”, the authors also draw negative conclusions as to the environmental performance of motorcycles, including those meeting latest Euro 4 standards.

ACEM has grounds to believe that the report's conclusions are based mainly on measurements of L-category vehicles during their acceleration phase. A generalisation of such results simply does not match real urban reality, and results in a drastic overestimation of vehicle emissions.

Research carried out by the European Research on Mobile Emission Sources (ERMES) has clearly shown that the emission performance of Euro 4 motorcycles is similar to the one of Euro 5 and 6 petrol cars. These measurements were taken using well-established, lab measurement technology, as well as real world test cycles.

The ERMES findings were used by the European Environmental Agency to update its own emissions model (COPERT ) in 2019. The COPERT model is used by policy-makers across Europe to model vehicle fleet emissions in urban areas. Furthermore, the ERMES findings were also used by public authorities in Austria, Germany, Sweden and Switzerland to update the Handbook Emission Factors for Road Transport (HBEFA ).

Quote

Commenting on the study Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said:

“ACEM fully supports the principle of public authorities mandating independent studies to gather evidence for effective policy-making. However, it is of utmost importance that such independent studies are performed using validated, accurate testing methods.

“The ICCT report is inconsistent with recent independent research findings based on real world emissions for motorcycles. The large number of invalid measurements and the high level of uncertainty of the valid ones clearly indicate that the remote sensing technology in the ICCT report is unable to correctly measure emissions of L-category vehicles. In other words, ICCT should not have drawn any conclusions based on these measurements. This could lead to ill-advised policies, which is unacceptable”.

“ACEM has already contacted the authors of the study and will continue engaging constructively with the ICCT to discuss both the findings of their report and the possible limitations of the measurement technologies used. In any event, the motorcycle sector remains fully committed to continuing to invest in cleaner technologies and reducing its environmental footprint. The entry into force of the Euro 5 environmental standard in 2020 will be another important step in that direction”.

Press contact

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

Documents available to download

ACEM comments on the ICCT study [PDF]

The European Motorcycle Training Quality Label receives the European Road Safety Charter Award
09 Oct 2019

Today the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label received the Road Safety Charter Award in the category “voluntary commitments” during an event organized by the European Commission in Brussels. The European award acknowledges inspirational and innovative initiatives that contribute towards improving road safety and saving lives on Europe’s roads.

The award was presented by the European Commissioner for Transport, Violeta Bulc, to the Secretary General of the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM), Antonio Perlot, who received it on behalf of the three members running the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label: ACEM, the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM) and the German Road Safety Council (DVR).

The European Motorcycle Training Quality Label is a voluntary certification scheme for post-licence motorcycle training programmes open to all training bodies. Its main objective is to help motorcyclists to recognize the best post-licence training options in Europe. The scheme was launched in 2016 and has certified 29 motorcycle training programmes in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain and Sweden, with more programmes currently under assessment.

The Road Safety Award is one of the flagship initiatives of the European Road Safety Charter, the most important Europe-wide civil society platform on road safety. The Charter was initiated in 2004 by the European Commission to encourage key stakeholders to take specific and measurable road safety action within their area of responsibilities.

Quote

Commenting on the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label, the European Commissioner for Transport Violeta Bulc said: “We are grateful that the European Motorcycling Training Quality Label has been set up, responding to our call for voluntary commitments. Europe has some high-quality training schemes on offer, and the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label will help motorcyclists to identify the very best of them”.

Antonio Perlot, Secretary General of the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM), said: “I am delighted to receive this award on behalf of the consortium running this programme. The Label is not only part of the motorcycle industry’s forward-looking safety strategy but also an excellent example of how cooperation between industry players, NGOs, motorcycle trainers and users’ organisations can deliver positive results in motorcycle safety”.

Christian Kellner, German Road Safety Council (DVR) CEO: “We are grateful to the European Commission for this award that honours the work of all the people involved in the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label. This recognition motivates us to continue working every day to make Europe’s roads safer”.

Jesper Christensen, FIM Director for Public Affairs: “Receiving this award from the European Commission is an honourable recognition of the joint road safety commitment made by FIM, ACEM and DVR. It shows that high quality post-licence training does play an important role in preserving motorcyclists’ safety and should be encouraged. This award is also one more reason for our organisation to continue supporting high quality training for all motorcyclists”.

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 - European Commissioner for Transport presents Road Safety Award to the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label - EN [PDF]

Press Release - European Commissioner for Transport presents Road Safety Award to the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label - FR [PDF]

Press Release - European Commissioner for Transport presents Road Safety Award to the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label - DE [PDF]

Press Release - European Commissioner for Transport presents Road Safety Award to the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label - ES [PDF]

Press Release - European Commissioner for Transport presents Road Safety Award to the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label - IT [PDF]

Photo - ACEM and FIM receiving the award

Photo - Road Safety Award Ceremony

Photo - Road Safety Award family picture

“Ready to Ride” motorcycle training programme receives the European Training Quality Label
18 Sep 2019

The “Ready to Ride” motorcycle training programme, by the Flemish Foundation for Traffic Safety (VSV), was today awarded the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label. “Ready to Ride” was introduced in 2015 to promote motorcycle safety training in Belgium. This programme is currently offered across the Belgian region of Flanders in 9 different training centres. Almost 2,000 motorcyclists have followed this programme so far.

The European Motorcycle Training Quality Label was launched in 2016 to promote the best post-licence training programmes in the EU. The scheme is run by the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM), the German Road Safety Council (DVR) and the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM). A total of 29 training programmes operating in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain and Sweden have already been recognized with this award.

Quote

Wouter De Clercq, Project manager of the VSV, said: “We believe it is important that motorcyclists take their own responsibility in riding safely with a powered two-wheeler. Riding a motorcycle is far from being an easy task. Motorcyclists, as vulnerable road users, must be aware of any risks on the roads and recognize hazards that are specific to powered two-wheelers”.

“VSV developed its “Ready to Ride” safety training programme precisely to achieve this important objective. The programme is currently delivered in several training centres in Flanders”.

Antonio Perlot, Secretary General of the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) said: “Many motorcycle training centres offer excellent post-licence programmes. However, it is not always easy for motorcyclists to know which ones to do. This is why we are delighted to award the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label to this programme. It is the recognition of both the quality of the training programme established by VSV and its commitment to making a positive difference to motorcycle safety”.

“The motorcycle industry fully supports the EU’s objective to reduce the number of fatal and serious accidents on Europe’s roads. This is precisely why our sector is working closely with public authorities, training organisations and users to improve motorcyclists’ safety”.

Press contact

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

Video

Informational video by VSV [Dutch]

Documents available to download

Press release - “Ready to Ride” motorcycle training programme receives the European Training Quality Label - English [PDF]

Press release - “Ready to Ride” motorcycle training programme receives the European Training Quality Label - French [PDF]

European Motorcycle Training Quality Label Award - High resolution photo [jpg]

European Motorcycle Training Quality Label Award - High resolution photo [jpg]

Race-track training - High resolution photo [jpg]

Race-track training - High resolution photo [jpg]

Race-track training - High resolution photo [jpg]

Race-track training - High resolution photo [jpg]

Race-track training - High resolution photo [jpg]

Road training - High resolution photo [jpg]

Road training - High resolution photo [jpg]

Road training - High resolution photo [jpg]

Motorcycle registrations in the European Union up by 9.1% during the first half of 2019
09 Aug 2019

Registrations of motorcycles in the EU reached 618,502 units during the first 6 months of 2019, according to the latest figures of the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM). This represents an increase of 9.1% compared to the same period of 2018.

With 138,650 units (a 6.2% increase on a year-on-year basis) Italy remains the largest European motorcycle market, followed by France (109,606 motorcycles, +12.5%), Germany (105,970 motorcycles, +8.5%), Spain (88,690 motorcycles, +12.6%) and the UK (56,611 motorcycles, +2.3%).

Motorcycle registrations also increased in almost all EU countries.

Moped registrations in the EU increased by 19.5%

The European moped market reached 147,826 units during the first 6 months of 2019. This represents an increase of 19.5% compared to the registration levels of the same period in 2018 (123,712 vehicles). The largest markets for mopeds in Europe were France (41,230 units), the Netherlands (31,154 units), Germany (14,629 units), Belgium (13,119 units) and Poland (10,427 units).

Registrations of electric vehicles in the EU up by 70%

Combined registrations of electric mopeds, motorcycles and quadricycles reached 35,810 units during the first six months of 2019. This represents a substantial increase of 70% compared to the registration levels of the first half of 2018 (21,062 units).
Most of the electric L-category vehicles registered in 2019 are mopeds (28,577 units), followed by motorcycles (5,812 units) and a much smaller number of quadricycles (about 1,421 units).

The largest European markets in terms of volume were France, where combined registrations of mopeds, motorcycles and quadricycles totalled 8,723 units (+60.6% on a year-on-year basis), followed by Belgium (8,087 vehicles, +111.0%), the Netherlands (6,321 vehicles, +62.1%), Spain (4,052 vehicles, +35.8%) and Italy (2,426 vehicles, +86.2%).

Documents available to download

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

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

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 operating in 15 European countries.

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

Job opening - ACEM is currently looking to expand its team with a new technical officer
19 Jul 2019

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) is currently looking to expand its team with a new technical officer. ACEM represents manufacturers of powered-two and three-wheelers as well as quadricycles (L-category vehicles) in Europe.

The members of the association include 18 manufacturing companies and 17 national industry associations in 14 different European countries.

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 and international trade.

Job purpose and description

Based in the Brussels office, the function will report directly to the Technical Manager and the Secretary General.

The Junior Technical Officer will address issues related to:
• European and international vehicle type-approval regulations, and other regulations that influence the design of motorcycles and affect the industry and its products.
• European and International standards.

Key tasks will include:
• Monitoring, reporting, and coordinating activities with experts from the ACEM membership, facilitating the building-up of common industry positions.
• Representing the Motorcycle Industry, in both European and international technical meetings.

Requirements

• Engineering degree (automotive, electromechanical or similar)
• 1-2 years’ work experience, ideally in motorcycle or automotive industry (vehicle or component manufacturing, type-approval or R&D) or equivalent
• Experience with EU and/or national institutions are a plus
• Fluent in English (spoken and written); knowledge of other European languages is a plus
• Ability to work in a dynamic and multicultural team, working in an international environment
• Ability to work autonomously on the assigned tasks in a result-oriented way
• Good analytical and communication skills
• Flexibility and ability to travel

Application

• Please send your CV and motivation letter to   
• Only shortlisted candidates will receive a reply and be invited for an interview
• Deadline for applications: 10 October 2019.

Documents available to download

Job description - Junior technical officer [PDF]

Motorcycle registrations in the EU increased by 19.2% during the first three months of 2019
14 Jun 2019

Registrations of motorcycles in the EU increased in most EU countries during the first 3 months of 2019. According to the latest figures of the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM), registrations reached 244,991 units. This represents an increase of 19.2% compared to the same period of 2018.

With 54,826 units (a 18.7% increase on a year-on-year basis) Italy remains the largest European motorcycle market, followed by Germany (44,450 motorcycles, +23.3%), France (43,942 motorcycles, +20.0%), Spain (37,255 motorcycles, +20.5%) and the UK (25,913 motorcycles, +10.3%).

Moped registrations in the EU also increased by 30%

The European moped market reached 52,715 units during the first 3 months of 2019. This represents an increase of about 30.1% compared to the registration levels of the same period in 2018 (40,522 units). The largest markets for mopeds in Europe were France (17,997 units), Netherlands (13,040 units), Belgium (4,683 units), Spain (3,993 units) and Italy (3,846 units).

Registrations of electric vehicles up by 71% in the EU

Combined registrations of electric mopeds, motorcycles and quadricycles reached 14,251 units during the first three months of 2019. This represents a substantial increase of 71.2% compared to the registration levels of the first three months of 2018 (8,326 units).

Most of the electric L-category vehicles registered in the first three months of 2019 are mopeds (11,258), followed by motorcycles (2,295 units). The largest European markets in terms of volume were France, where combined registrations of mopeds, motorcycles and quadricycles totalled 4,407 units (+105% on a year-on-year basis), followed by Belgium (2 627 vehicles, +78.5%), Netherlands (2 598 vehicles, +52.6%), Spain (1,632 vehicles, +28%) and Italy (901 vehicles, +49,2%).

Quote

Commenting on the latest figures, Antonio Perlot, Secretary General of ACEM, said:

“The increase in vehicle registrations reflects the overall improving economic conditions across Europe, particularly in the largest EU markets, as well as European citizens’ preference for an an enjoyable and convenient means of transport”.

“At the same time, given the seasonal nature of motorcycle and moped markets, we will need to wait for the registration figures of late July to assess whether 2019 has been a very good year for our industry”.

Documents available to download

ACEM - Statistical press release - Q1 2019 [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical press release - Q1 2019 [xls]

Press contact

Ilaria Balloni
ACEM communications assistant
E.  
P. +32 (0)22 30 97 32

European Commissioner for Transport endorses the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label
10 Apr 2019

On 4 April 2019, coinciding with the beginning of the motorcycle riding season, the European Commissioner for Transport Violeta Bulc addressed a video message to motorcyclists, in which she encouraged riders “to embrace a responsible approach to motorcycling and to attend voluntary advanced safety training on a regular basis”.

Commissioner Bulc pointed out that: “Europe has some high-quality training schemes on offer” and that the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label will help motorcyclists “to identify the very best motorcycle safety training courses available in Europe”. The European Commissioner added: “We are grateful that the European Motorcycling Training Quality Label has been set up, responding to our call for voluntary commitments”.

Stefan Pierer, President of ACEM, the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers, and CEO of KTM, said: “We are delighted that the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label has the support of the European Commissioner for Transport. High quality post-licence training helps motorcyclists to improve their riding skills. It can also make their experience not only more enjoyable but also safer. This label, which is part of the sector’s long-term safety strategy, will have a very positive impact on motorcycle safety across Europe”.

The European Motorcycle Training Quality Label is a certification scheme open to a wide range of organisations based in Europe offering advanced safety training. It was launched in 2015 by ACEM and DVR, the German Road Safety Council, with the aim to help motorcyclists to easily identify high-quality post-license training programmes across Europe. Subsequently, the International Motorcycling Federation, FIM, joined the partnership and the European Transport Safety Council, ETSC, provided its endorsement.

To date, a total of 28 post-license motorcycle training programmes have been certified in Sweden, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Austria and Germany, and further applications are under evaluation (https://motorcycle-training-label.eu).

Media

ACEM press release - European Commissioner for Transport endorses the European Motorcycle Training Quality Label supporting high quality safety training [pdf]

Video message from the Commissioner for Transport

Press contact

Ilaria Balloni. ACEM communications assistant

+32 (0)22 30 97 32

ACEM General Assembly confirms Presidium and welcomes Quadro and TEKNINEN as its two new members
21 Mar 2019

Today the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) held its 29th General Assembly. The event was hosted by Yamaha MBK at its manufacturing facility in Saint-Quentin, France.

The ACEM General Assembly confirmed the current Presidium for a new two-year mandate. President Mr. Stefan Pierer (CEO of KTM AG) and Vice-Presidents Mr. Michele Colaninno (member of Piaggio & C. SpA’s board of directors, CEO and COO of the Immsi Group, which controls the Piaggio Group) and Mr. Markus Schramm (President of BMW Motorrad) will start these new mandates on 1 July 2019.

During the General Assembly, ACEM also welcomed Quadro and Tekninen as new guest members of the European association.

Quadro Vehicles is a Swiss vehicle manufacturer that develops three and four-wheelers used mostly for urban mobility and characterized by a hydro-pneumatic suspension system which grants the vehicles an all-wheel tilting technology. The company, which manufactures both electric and internal combustion engine vehicles, is headquartered in Vacallo, Switzerland, and counts more than 500 retailers in 20 different countries all over the world.

Tekninen, the Association of Finnish Technical Traders, brings together about 380 Finnish companies, with combined annual sales of more than 10 billion Euros, representing about 85% of Finnish businesses. Tekninen’s motorcycle branch, one of the association’s 20 areas of operation, is a forum for companies active in the importing of motorcycles and mopeds, and related services. Tekninen’s motorcycle divisions aims to support the competitiveness of its members and raise industry profile in cooperation with stakeholders.

With the addition of these two members, ACEM's membership will now include a total of 18 manufacturing companies and 17 national industry associations.

Press contact

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

 

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