Member states seize last chance to unlock clean truck deal

After more than two years of deadlock EU government ministers have finally unlocked negotiations on rules to grant trucks extra weight to accommodate heavier clean technologies. This was the last chance to move forward with the file, and clears the way for trilogue talks.

The Council’s position will increase the weight allowance of some electric and hydrogen articulated trucks from two to four tonnes. These trucks will now be able to drive further on a single charge, without compromising on the load they can carry. This is a big step forward to boost zero-emission trucking and sends a strong message to truckmakers looking to invest in clean trucks, T&E says.

Bernardo Galantini, Freight Officer at T&E, said “Member states have finally shifted gear after years of delay, pulling this deal back when it risked slipping away. Although there is still room for improvement, giving some zero-emission trucks an extra four tonnes will allow these models to carry full loads farther. Truckmakers now have the green light and should scale up investments in clean trucks”.

As the agreement moves to trilogues, T&E emphasises that there is still room for improvement. Negotiators must raise the weight allowance of the remaining five-axle zero-emission combinations to at least 2.5 tonnes.