EU-prescribed diesel engine additive does not work in freezing conditions

Priority question for written answer P-000520/2026
to the Commission
Rule 144
Eero Heinäluoma (S&D)

Finland has recently experienced severe frosts throughout the country. The lowest temperature recorded so far this year has been -42.8°C, in Lapland. It has become apparent that EU legislation does not take enough account of the different weather conditions in the Member States. Furthermore, sufficient requirements are not in place obliging vehicle manufacturers to take into account the reliability of emission reduction systems in cold conditions such as those commonly experienced in Finland.

Current emission reduction equipment for diesel cars cannot withstand Finnish winter temperatures, and up to 80 % of transport companies have experienced problems owing to the AdBlue urea solution freezing. In practice, AdBlue fluid is required by the EU to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions, but it freezes at around -11°C.

The problem is widespread, as the freezing of the AdBlue urea solution increases the risk of equipment failure, affecting not only cars but machinery as well, and resulting in significant additional costs for sectors such as transport, forestry, agriculture, mining, public transport and tourism. The vulnerability of the systems to normal freezing conditions is also having a negative impact on Finland's security of supply.

• 1.Is the Commission aware that the AdBlue urea solution, which is effectively required under by EU regulations, does not work in normal winter conditions in Finland, causing unnecessary additional costs and having an adverse impact on Finland's security of supply?
• 2.Will the Commission permit, as a matter of urgency, alternative, more frost-resistant additives to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from diesel cars?
• 3.Does the Commission intend to take better account of northern conditions, and of the specific characteristics of the north, in EU regulation in the future?

Submitted: 9.2.2026