That warning comes from a new cross-industry coalition launched in Brussels this week under E-Mobility Europe. The group brings together truck manufacturers, logistics operators, charge point developers, utilities, grid providers, and major freight buyers including Amazon, Iberdrola, Milence and the TRATON Group.
Despite recent momentum, the coalition highlights that only 3.6% of new trucks sold in Europe in the first half of 2025 were electric. To align with 2030 goals, the share must rise to 38%.
“Every part of the industry is investing heavily. What’s missing is policy alignment. Our new coalition shows that the sector is ready, and it’s working together. Now governments must act to unlock scale,” said Chris Heron, Secretary General of E-Mobility Europe.
The coalition has published Blueprint 2030 – Closing Europe’s Electric Trucks Gap, a policy agenda aimed at EU and national governments. Key recommendations include:
- Modernising vehicle rules and securing battery and component supply chains.
- Strengthening the business case through carbon pricing, wider toll exemptions, and fairer taxation.
- Driving stronger demand signals via corporate fleet incentives and public procurement.
- Accelerating charging and grid readiness with faster permitting, investment de-risking, and support for anticipatory grid upgrades.
Christian Levin, CEO of the TRATON Group, noted that manufacturers are already making large investments but require clear frameworks:
“Our industry is undergoing a historic shift—from combustion engines to zero-emission technologies like battery-electric trucks and buses. To succeed, we need bold targets—but they must be paired with enabling conditions and predictable, long-term incentives.”
Anja van Niersen, CEO of charging joint venture Milence, added:
“The next five years will decide whether Europe leads or lags in the global economy. The technology and trucks are ready, but no single player can do it alone.”
The coalition also stressed that grid operators must be able to move faster. Iberdrola’s Chief Technology Officer, Agustín Delgado, said:
“Enable anticipatory capex with stable returns, and the charging network for heavy-duty fleets will arrive on time – and at scale.”
Over the coming 12 months, the coalition plans to publish joint studies, new data and coordinated projects designed to demonstrate how electric truck deployment can be scaled rapidly across Europe.
