IAAF has been extremely active across various working groups, in conjunction with FIGIEFA, to lobby the European Commission to ensure practical, fair implementation to protect aftermarket businesses and consumer choice with the introduction of  Euro 7, the next-generation emissions standard for vehicles in Europe, aiming to further reduce air pollution from vehicles, including both exhaust and non-exhaust emissions.

Euro 7 introduces brake particulate emissions requirements for entire brake systems (discs, linings, drums). This, in its current form, causes:

1. significant testing burdens and costs for parts manufacturers and
2. compatibility issues which may force the installation of “friction couples” only.

The impractical application dates (Nov 29, 2026 (new vehicle type approvals), Nov 29, 2027 (all new vehicle registrations)) will create market distortions and create a two tier market where newer vehicles that require emission compliant  brake components will be unavailable through traditional aftermarket channels.

Regulation Overview:

• Euro 7 sets strict PM emission limits for brake systems: 7 mg/km (ICE), 3 mg/km (EV).
• Applies from Nov 2026 (type approvals) and Nov 2027 (new registrations of pre-2026 type approved vehicles).

Key Changes:

• Particulate Matter emissions now regulated for entire brake systems, including aftermarket parts.
• Compliance depends on friction couples (disc + pad), not individual components.

Aftermarket Challenges:

• Massive testing burden: thousands of tests needed, limited lab capacity.
• High costs and tight timelines risk excluding independent suppliers.
• Lack of OEM technical data hinders compatibility and compliance.
• Risk of market distortion, with OEMs dominating supply.

IAAF & FIGIEFA Proposed Solutions

• Extend implementation timelines (e.g., tyre industry has until 2036).
• Mandate OEM data sharing to support aftermarket compliance.
• Allow interoperability to avoid mandatory friction couple replacements.

For more information and for a more detailed breakdown of the legislation, please contact IAAF Technical Director Neil Pattemore neil@iaaf.co.uk