What does the energy efficiency category (label A–G) mean?

The energy label for passenger cars assigns each new model to one of seven energy efficiency categories: A stands for an energy-efficient vehicle, G for a comparatively inefficient one.

Since 1 January 2023, the boundaries of the efficiency categories are determined by the CO₂ target value of the emission rules. Because this target value fell for new passenger cars on 1 January 2025, the classification became more demanding; a further adjustment takes effect on 1 January 2026.

The classification is relative and readjusted periodically — an “A” today does not correspond to the same absolute value as an “A” in earlier years.