The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has launched a revised draft of its Automotive Sector Net-Zero Standard for a second round of public consultation, setting out an updated framework for automakers and auto parts manufacturers aiming to align with net-zero emissions by 2050.
The updated draft strengthens alignment with the developing Corporate Net-Zero Standard Version 2 and existing SBTi methodologies, while providing greater clarity on emissions from the “use of sold products” and clearer vehicle definitions. Use-phase emissions account for the majority of the automotive sector’s climate impact, representing an estimated 70–80% of an automaker’s total footprint.
The Automotive Standard establishes a science-based approach for companies to set credible net-zero targets, with a particular emphasis on addressing emissions generated during vehicle use. When applied alongside the Corporate Net-Zero Standard, the framework is intended to improve the accuracy, credibility and specificity of company targets.
Key changes in the new draft include a stronger focus on Scope 3, Category 11 emissions; a redefinition of low-emission vehicles as zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) to provide clearer boundaries; and the introduction of flexibility for automakers to set targets using either use-phase emissions or a ZEV sales-share metric, while maintaining consistent long-term decarbonisation outcomes. The draft also extends the convergence date used to calculate targets to better reflect differences in infrastructure, technology and regional contexts, and allows for globally aggregated targets for light-duty vehicles to simplify implementation.
SBTi said the revised framework would help companies demonstrate climate leadership, support long-term, capital-intensive transition decisions and strengthen investor and consumer confidence. The Standard is also designed to improve regulatory readiness and future-proof competitiveness in a sector characterised by complex global supply chains.
The latest draft incorporates feedback from the first consultation, as well as input from the Automotive Standard Expert Advisory Group and SBTi’s Technical Council. According to SBTi, the revisions are intended to improve adaptability and usability for companies, while maintaining scientific rigour and interoperability with the forthcoming Corporate Net-Zero Standard.
Once finalised, the Automotive Standard will replace the automotive-related elements of SBTi’s existing Land Transport Guidance, providing updated, sector-specific criteria tailored to automakers and their suppliers.
The public consultation runs from 3 February to 22 March 2026 and is open to all stakeholders with an interest in the automotive sector’s transition to net-zero. Feedback submitted through the consultation survey will inform the final version of the Standard.
Karl Downey, Head of Sector Standards at SBTi, said stakeholder input had been critical to shaping the revised draft. “Decarbonising the road transport sector is vital to meeting global net-zero goals,” he said. “Ensuring the Standard can accommodate the operational contexts of different companies will help the whole sector, enabling automakers and auto parts manufacturers to turn ambition into practical, credible climate action.”
