To encourage and promote the competitiveness of sustainable road transport, the European Commission recommends exempting zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles from road tolls and user fees.
As promised in the European automotive sector's industrial action plan, the Commission recommends extending the current exemption period from 31st December 2025 to 30th June 2031, giving enterprises a strong incentive to invest in zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles.
These vehicles are now more expensive to purchase than their traditional counterparts, making them less appealing to potential owners. This remains one of the primary barriers to their widespread adoption. The EU hopes that by exempting zero-emission trucks and buses from tolls and user fees, businesses would find them more viable.
The proposed exemption period will be aligned with the EU's performance objectives for CO2 emissions from new heavy-duty vehicles, which aim for a 43% decrease in 2030.