The directive, which sets the standards for vehicle size and weight limits across EU roads, is key to enabling the transition to zero-emission trucks. As of the first half of 2024, ZEVs represented only 1.9% of new truck registrations in the EU. To meet the EU’s 2030 CO2 reduction targets for heavy-duty vehicles, at least one-third of all new truck registrations must be zero-emission.
The letter emphasised the importance of revising the directive to provide ZEVs with unrestricted access to the EU’s road network, alongside weight allowances and other necessary adjustments, while minimising the impact on road wear.
According to the signatories, the swift adoption of the General Approach is essential to maintaining consistency with existing EU legislation and facilitating interinstitutional negotiations in early 2025.
In urging the Council of the EU to act, the organisations reiterated that the directive’s revision is indispensable for fostering the growth of ZEVs in the heavy-duty sector, which will play a critical role in achieving Europe’s decarbonisation goals. They called on the Council to finalise the General Approach by the end of 2024 to ensure timely progress in negotiations.