The European Parliament has approved a proposal by the European Commission to extend toll exemptions for zero-emission heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) until 2031, offering longer-term incentives for cleaner freight transport. The move aims to boost investment in electric and hydrogen-powered trucks as part of the EU’s broader climate-neutral transport strategy.
Under current rules, electric and other zero-emission trucks are exempt from tolls only until December 31, 2025, after which they would be required to contribute to infrastructure costs. The Commission’s new plan, first proposed in June, extends this deadline to June 30, 2031, aligning with its action plan for the European automotive industry.
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EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas said the goal is to “create the right conditions to support European companies and reward pioneers in the transition to a low-carbon economy.” He added that the extension represents a “strong incentive for the industry to invest in zero-emission vehicles and reduce emissions from road transport.”
The Parliament’s decision came after it rejected a motion opposing the Commission’s proposal, effectively clearing the path for the measure. The final approval now rests with the EU Council, which represents member states. Once ratified, each member country will still need to implement the exemption or reduced toll rates in their own national legislation.
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The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) welcomed the vote, calling it “a decisive step towards accelerating the transition to climate-neutral road transport.” However, ACEA noted that only two EU member states currently offer full toll exemptions for zero-emission trucks, while ten apply reduced rates and 15 have no exemptions at all.
“The clock is ticking fast,” said Thomas Fabian, ACEA’s Chief Commercial Vehicles Officer. “We have just 56 months left for a tenfold increase of the market share of zero-emission trucks — from today’s 3.5% to at least 35% by 2030. It is incomprehensible that not all available policy instruments are being implemented to make this transition happen.”