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. (....)