Answer given by Mr Breton on behalf of the European Commission

The Commission is aware of the growing importance of particles generated by brakes and tyres as source of particulate matter emissions from road traffic. For this reason, particles generated by brakes and tyres are part of the emissions considered in the impact assessment supporting the preparation of the upcoming Euro 7 pollutant regulation.

As far as brake emissions are concerned, technical work conducted over the past years in the context of the United Nations World Forum for Harmonisation of Vehicles Regulations constitutes a solid basis that will be taken into account. With regard to tyres, the Commission recently launched a technical study with a view to establish a standard methodology to measure tyre abrasion. Further work will be needed in this respect.