Heavy vehicle importers are being urged to prepare now for tighter emissions standards that take effect from November 1, 2025.
The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) is reminding its members from that date, all heavy vehicles certified for entry that are border-inspected must comply with Euro VI step C or an approved equivalent. The Government’s Exhaust Emissions Rule explicitly lists Japan 2016, US 2013/Tier 3, ADR 80/04, and UN R49/06 as acceptable standards.
The change follows last year’s uplift to Euro V for used heavy imports and is part of New Zealand’s move to stay aligned with Australia and other jurisdictions.
What “Japan 2016” means
Japan 2016 is the post-New Long Term heavy-duty emissions standard using the WHTC test cycle. It is recognised in New Zealand as equivalent for entry from November next year.
Importers will need to provide original Japanese deregistration or export certificates — or other accepted documentation — showing the emissions code. Certifiers will record the information in LANDATA in line with guidance from the Vehicle Inspection Requirements Manual.
Tightening supply
Industry feedback suggests prices for compliant vehicles are already climbing. Used prices in some heavy segments are up about 30 per cent year-on-year, with importers turning to higher-kilometre domestic stock as Japan supply tightens.
That trend is expected to intensify once Euro VI/Japan 2016 rules take effect, with most eligible vehicles being 2017 and newer builds.
What importers should do now
VIA is urging importers to take the following steps:
- Prioritise Japan 2016-coded trucks and confirm codes before purchase.
- Budget for higher capital costs and likely auction premiums on compliant stock.
- Work closely with entry-cert agents using the latest documentation checklist.
- Pre-sell vehicles with realistic lead-times and explain cost changes to customers.
- Highlight Euro VI benefits for fleets, including lower emissions and improved total cost of ownership in urban duty cycles.
“Expect seasonal slowdowns and demand spikes; don’t rely on late-year bargains as the rule change will firm prices,” VIA warns.
