Machinery manufacturers are seeking clarity around a request to postpone Stage V emissions legislation due to COVID-19 supply chain issues.

A request was made to the European Commission 11 weeks ago by the European industry associations representing the non-road mobile machinery sector to adopt measures in response to disruptions caused by the pandemic. Regulations state that 2020 is the transition phase for engines in power ranges less than 75hp (56kW) and ranges where engines are 175hp (130kW) or higher.

While these transition engines have already been manufactured, European machinery manufacturers have now until 30 June 2020 to fit these engines into new machines.

Further to this, these machines have to be put on EU markets no later than 31 December 2020. The same scenario applies for 2021 for engines with power outputs ranging between 75hp (56kW) and 175hp (130kW).

It is believed that the problem is a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The worldwide supply of parts and components for many EU-based manufacturers was disrupted as a result of government-imposed lockdowns and factory closures.

Without these essential components such as axles, hydraulic and electronic equipment, manufacturers are effectively prevented from fully manufacturing such machines by the deadline set out. Therefore, these machines will not be suitable for the market if fitted with transition engines and not already on the market by the deadline stated.

The major underlying issue is that these particular engines will have to be scrapped, resulting in economic damage and waste of both materials and resources, a problem that can well be avoided, according to the European association representing the agricultural machinery industry (CEMA). The joint letter sent to the Commission on 25 March by CEMA and a number of other industry bodies seeks postponement of the 2020 and 2021 deadlines listed on exhaust emissions from Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM) and for agricultural vehicles.

As of 29 April 2020, a decision still had yet to be made by the Commission regarding this issue, leaving the industry in the dark.

However, a response is expected in the coming days as the legal deadline looms.