Implementation of the EU Directive 2000/53/EC governing the take-back of end-of-life vehicles by Member States has created a standard legal framework within the EU for the environment-friendly disposal of end-of-life vehicles in line with the principle of the manufacturers’ product liability.

In Germany the end-of-life vehicle directive was implemented under the End-Of-Life Vehicle Law, which has been in effect since July 1, 2002.