The International Road Union (IRU) and Transport & Environment (T&E) have jointly appealed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to establish a high-level strategic dialogue focused on accelerating the transition of Europe’s heavy-duty vehicle sector toward zero-emission technologies. The request comes as the EU faces mounting pressures from energy crises, geopolitical instability, and the climate impacts of extreme weather events, all of which are intensifying the need to reshape transport infrastructure and operations.
The two organizations argue that while the EU has established a clear policy direction for decarbonising heavy-duty transport, achieving this transition will require coordinated efforts across multiple levels of government and stakeholder groups. They propose that a dialogue led by the European Commission President would demonstrate sustained political commitment to the sector and create a forum for transport operators, vehicle manufacturers, infrastructure providers, energy suppliers, and civil society representatives to collectively address the barriers preventing rapid adoption of zero-emission trucks, buses, and coaches. According to IRU EU Advocacy Director Raluca Marian, incorporating the operational and economic perspectives of transport operators is essential for designing effective policies in subsequent phases of the transition.
The appeal arrives at a critical juncture, as two significant pieces of EU legislation are heading toward review. The Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) governs the deployment of charging and hydrogen refueling infrastructure across member states, while the Heavy-Duty Vehicle CO₂ Standards establish emissions reduction targets for newly manufactured heavy-duty vehicles. T&E Executive Director William Todts emphasized that rapid shifts toward electric trucks powered by renewable electricity represent the most effective strategy for reducing Europe’s reliance on imported oil.
Both organizations have highlighted that successful implementation of a decarbonisation roadmap will depend on several supporting factors, including adequate electrical grid capacity, accessible charging infrastructure, competitive energy pricing, accessible financing mechanisms, and sufficient market demand for zero-emission transport solutions. They advocate for a transparent, inclusive policy development process that brings together all relevant stakeholders to identify remaining obstacles and prioritize urgent interventions.
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