SBTi launches new public consultation on updated Automotive Net-Zero Standard draft

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has launched an updated draft of its Automotive Sector Net-Zero Standard for a second public consultation—a new framework for automakers and auto parts manufacturers seeking to set science-based targets aligned with reaching net-zero by 2050. The new draft focuses on enhancing alignment with the developing Corporate Net-Zero Standard and existing SBTi methods while providing clarity and specificity around “use of sold products” emissions and vehicle definitions.

Most of the automotive sector’s emissions come from the use of the vehicles it sells, which comprise an average of 70–80% of an automaker’s footprint. The Automotive Standard establishes a clear, science-based framework for automotive companies to set credible net-zero targets with a particular focus on these use-phase emissions, enhancing the accuracy, credibility, and specificity of these net-zero targets when used with the Corporate Net-Zero Standard.

Key updates included in the new draft include: 

• Maintaining alignment with the developing Corporate Net-Zero Standard V2 by moving to a clear focus on scope 3, category 11 “Use of sold products” emissions.
• Redefining low-emission vehicles as zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) to provide clearer boundaries.
• Introducing optionality for automakers to set targets using either scope 3, category 11 emissions or a ZEV sales-share metric, while maintaining consistent long-term decarbonization outcomes.
• Better alignment with existing SBTi methods by extending the convergence date used to calculate targets to reflect infrastructure, technology, and regional differences.
• Allowing global aggregated targets for light-duty vehicles to streamline implementation.

By setting targets using the Automotive Standard, companies will be able to demonstrate climate leadership, drive innovation, and strengthen investor and consumer confidence. Following the Standard will not only support the framing of long-term, capital-intensive transition decisions and enhance regulatory readiness but help future-proof competitiveness in an industry with complex global supply chains.

The latest draft reflects extensive feedback from the first consultation, as well as insights from the Automotive Standard Expert Advisory Group and SBTi’s Technical Council. The revisions aim to increase adaptability and usability for automotive companies, and ensure interoperability with the developing draft Corporate Net-Zero Standard Version 2—all while maintaining scientific rigor.

Once finalized, the Automotive Standard will replace the parts of the SBTi’s existing Land Transport Guidance pertaining to the automotive industry. The new Standard will provide updated, sector-specific criteria tailored to the unique emissions and operations of automakers and the auto parts manufacturers that supply them.

The consultation is open from February 3, 2026, to March 22, 2026 via the consultation survey and represents a key opportunity for stakeholders to help shape the final Automotive Net-Zero Standard. The SBTi invites feedback from all stakeholders with an interest in the automotive sector’s transition to net-zero. Input received will help ensure the final Standard is both practical and robust in supporting the sector’s decarbonization journey.

Karl Downey, Head of Sector Standards at the Science-Based Targets initiative, said:

“The feedback we received from stakeholders during the last public consultation was crucial in developing this new draft with an increased focus on adaptability and usability. Decarbonizing the road transport sector is vital in meeting global net-zero goals, and ensuring the Standard can accommodate the operational contexts of different companies will help the whole sector. Creating a final Standard that enables companies to benefit from the many opportunities the transition provides will help automakers and auto parts makers to transform their ambition into practical, credible climate action.”