EU Parliament Backs Zero-Emission Truck Boost
In a significant step towards greener transport, the European Parliament's Transport and Tourism Committee has backed a revision to road transport rules. The move aims to boost the competitiveness of zero-emission trucks and buses, which are crucial for EU decarbonisation objectives.
The revision, adopted by 26 votes to 11 with one abstention on Wednesday, seeks to increase the maximum weight and length of zero-emission trucks. This is to accommodate heavier batteries or hydrogen cells and provide extra loading capacity.
MEPs argue that this update will make cleaner trucks and buses more competitive, encouraging the transport industry to switch from conventional vehicles. The revision is part of a wider EU effort to reduce greenhouse gas and nitrogen oxide emissions from road transport, which currently account for 28% and 34% respectively.
The draft position also considers the use of mega trucks, which are longer and heavier than current EU limits. Under certain conditions, EU countries can allow their circulation, but MEPs stress the need for impact assessments before adding new roads for their use. They propose creating an EU label for these vehicles to enhance road safety and a Commission web portal for relevant information.
MEPs are keen to ensure that the installation of zero-emission technologies does not compromise cabin space or driver comfort. They also call for stricter enforcement of EU rules, including automatic control systems and digital tools like Intelligent Access Policy.
The revised rules will now be voted on by all MEPs in a forthcoming plenary session, potentially in March. If approved, they will support the greening of EU freight transport, helping the bloc meet its decarbonisation goals. The revision builds on experiences from countries like Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, the Netherlands, and some German states that have authorised longer trucks and mega trucks under specific conditions.
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