In December 2008, the European Parliament voted in favour of the amended Euro VI standard which requires a reduction of 80% in NOx and 66% in PM - when compared to Euro V -bringing European limits in line with those in the US. The Euro VI standards remain the same as outlined in the January 2008 proposal (NOx = 0.4 g/kWh, PM = 0.01 g/kWh) but will be implemented earlier than anticipated. All new heavy goods vehicles must comply nine months earlier than proposed (31 December 2012) and all others by 31 December 2013. It is anticipated that the new emissions limits will require the use of in-engine EGR in combination with a DPF and SCR after-treatment package. Currently, manufacturers are able to choose between technologies, exploiting the fuel efficiencies of SCR or the simplicity of EGR. The proposal also introduces global harmonised test cycles.

European Commission Vice President, Gunter Verheugen, welcomed the amendments, "Today's agreement of the European Parliament is a good message for the environment. Soon we will have cleaner trucks and buses, which will be trend-setters worldwide."