Automotive Mobility Europe welcomes European Commission’s MVBER evaluation and calls for a future-proof regulatory framework
Brussels, 26 June 2026
Automotive Mobility Europe (AME) welcomes the actual publication of the European Commission’s evaluation of the Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation (MVBER) and its Supplementary Guidelines. The Commission’s conclusion that the current framework remains fit for purpose confirms the continued importance of sector-specific competition rules in safeguarding a competitive and innovative automotive aftermarket across Europe.
The evaluation recognises that the MVBER has successfully promoted effective competition, supported consumer choice, facilitated cross-border trade and preserved the role of independent repairers, distributors and spare parts suppliers alongside vehicle manufacturers’ authorised networks.
At the same time, the Commission rightly acknowledges that the automotive sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by digitalisation, software-defined vehicles, electrification and connected services. These developments require the regulatory framework to evolve in order to ensure that competition remains effective in the years ahead.
“The Commission’s evaluation sends a clear message: the principles underpinning the MVBER remain valid, but the rules must evolve to reflect the realities of the digital automotive ecosystem,” said “Independent service providers must continue to have fair, secure and non-discriminatory access to technical information, in-vehicle data, software functionalities and remote diagnostic capabilities. Without such access, competition and consumer choice will inevitably suffer.”
Automotive Mobility Europe believes that the next generation of the MVBER should build upon its proven success while addressing emerging market challenges. Future rules should provide greater legal certainty regarding:
- Access to vehicle-generated data;
- Access to software-enabled repair and maintenance functions;
- Over-the-air (OTA) updates and remote diagnostics;
- Cybersecurity-related procedures affecting independent operators;
- Equal treatment of independent market participants throughout the vehicle lifecycle.
Nevertheless, we believe that some important issues would benefit from further attention, in particular the growing impact of direct sales and agency models, the use of maintenance and servicing packages combined with the new vehicle sales, the refusal of applications to become authorised repairers, and the practical importance of enforcement. While the Regulation is clear in principle, its effectiveness depends on consistent enforcement in practice.
The association stands ready to contribute constructively to the Commission’s forthcoming policy discussions. Europe’s independent automotive service and mobility sector plays a vital role in ensuring affordable mobility, innovation, sustainability and consumer choice. A modernised MVBER will be essential to maintaining a level playing field in an increasingly digital automotive market.
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About Automotive Mobility Europe (AME)
AME represents Europe’s professionals in automotive distribution, services, and the after-sales sector of individual mobility. Bringing together the full ecosystem of automotive services – from vehicle sales and repair to maintenance and mobility solutions – AME provides a unified and authoritative voice at EU level. Its members support sustainable mobility through vehicle repair, maintenance, parts distribution, remanufacturing, reuse and recycling activities, contributing significantly to Europe’s competitiveness and circular economy objectives.
Contact – AME Automotive Mobility Europe – Rue Jacques de Lalaing 4 – B-1040 Brussels cdw@automotivemobilityeurope.eu
