IRU and a cross-sector industry coalition have called on EU policymakers to prioritise infrastructure, investment support and enabling conditions in the transition to zero-emission corporate fleets.
In a joint statement, IRU, Leaseurope, SMEunited, the European Road Hauliers Association, Eurofinas and the International Federation of Automotive Aftermarket Distributors urged EU co-legislators to adopt a more balanced and effective approach that supports a commercially viable fleet transition for businesses and operators.
The call comes at a key stage in discussions in the European Parliament and Council on the European Commission’s proposal to accelerate the uptake of zero-emission vehicles in corporate fleets across the EU.
IRU EU Advocacy Director Raluca Marian said, “Setting the direction at EU level can help Member States accelerate the uptake of zero-emission vehicles in corporate fleets. But this cannot be achieved through a top-down approach based on another set of binding targets.”
“Overall, any demand-focused measures should be supported by the right enabling conditions. Faster deployment of depot and public charging infrastructure, for both light commercial and heavy-duty vehicles, improved grid capacity and stronger support for fleet investment, including via operational incentives, will be essential to make the transition workable for all operators, including SMEs,” she added.
The signatories highlighted that the EU markets with the greatest uptake of zero-emission vehicles have investment incentives, charging infrastructure and stable regulatory frameworks.
Many operators and SMEs still face significant barriers linked to charging infrastructure availability, grid capacity constraints, and financing pressures. Stronger support for SMEs, better coordination of financing and support schemes are needed across the EU.
The organisations reaffirmed their support for the decarbonisation of road transport and called on EU co-legislators to ensure that the future framework supports investment, infrastructure deployment, and workable operating conditions for operators transitioning to zero-emission fleets across the EU.
IRU will continue to engage with EU policymakers and stakeholders to support a practical and commercially viable framework for the transition to zero-emission road transport.