ECHA begins work on substances of concern in end-of-life vehicles

On August 17, 2026, ECHA announced it would support the European Commission in identifying substances of concern in vehicles, assessing how they may affect reuse, recycling, human health and the environment.
The ELV Regulation requires the presence of substances of concern in vehicles, parts and components to be minimised as far as possible. ECHA's initial work will feed a Commission report due by February 14, 2028.
The Commission may use the findings to set future information requirements or restrictions for substances that hinder reuse or recycling of vehicle materials. Where chemical safety action is needed, ECHA may be asked to prepare restriction proposals under REACH.
The regulation maintains existing restrictions on lead, mercury, cadmium and hexavalent chromium in vehicles, subject to Annex IV conditions and exemptions. A stricter framework applies for vehicle types type-approved from September 1, 2032.
The regulation generally applies from September 1, 2028. ECHA's work does not introduce new restrictions today, but companies are advised to map substances in parts and components that may affect dismantling, reuse and recycling.