Electric Highways Ahead: EU Extends Toll Relief to 2031

EU extends toll breaks to 2031, fueling investment and momentum in electric and hydrogen truck fleets

11 Sep 2025

Europe’s freight sector is set for a major shift after the European Union approved an extension of toll exemptions for zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles until June 2031, pending final Council endorsement. The measure aims to accelerate the transition away from diesel fleets and strengthen investment in electric and hydrogen trucks.

The initiative forms part of the amended Eurovignette Directive, approved by the European Parliament on 9 September 2025 following a European Commission proposal in June. It allows EU member states to waive or reduce tolls and user charges for zero-emission trucks rather than mandating full exemptions. For operators facing high fuel costs and tight margins, the flexibility offers a strong economic incentive to modernise their fleets.

“This is the certainty the industry needed,” said the International Road Transport Union, calling the decision a “long-term signal” for investment in zero-emission vehicles. The trade body urged national governments to apply the measure consistently to prevent competitive distortions.

Manufacturers and infrastructure developers are expected to benefit from the policy’s extended horizon, which offers clearer conditions for scaling production and investing in charging and refuelling networks. Charging-network operators across Europe have reported rising interest from logistics firms seeking to electrify their operations.

Analysts say the combination of regulatory support, maturing technology and growing market demand could mark a turning point for Europe’s freight decarbonisation. Yet, challenges remain. Implementation depends on national decisions, which may lead to uneven application across borders. High upfront vehicle costs and gaps in charging infrastructure also continue to hinder rapid adoption.

Despite these obstacles, the extension is seen as a practical step toward meeting Europe’s climate goals. By linking cost incentives to low-emission performance, policymakers hope to drive a gradual but sustained transformation of the road freight industry.