For the first time, Europe has introduced specific CO₂ regulations for heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks, buses, and tour buses. The goal of these regulations is very simple: to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions.
EU Regulation 2019/1242, which has been in effect since August 14, 2019, forms the basis for this. These rules align with existing standards for passenger cars and are intended to help the transportation sector combat climate change, fully in line with the ambitions of the Paris Agreement.
According to the European Parliament, the regulation provides:
“A clear path to reducing CO₂ emissions from road transport and contributes to the binding target of reducing domestic greenhouse gas emissions by at least 45% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.”
What does this mean for the sector?
- Stricter CO₂ reduction requirements, including for trucks and buses
- A fair, European framework for measuring and monitoring emissions
- Clear guidance for manufacturers and transport operators on the path to a more sustainable fleet
This regulation represents an important step toward making the European transportation sector more sustainable and encourages innovation toward cleaner and more efficient vehicles. As a truck tire wholesaler, you can read more about our vision on sustainability.
Truck Toll
The truck toll will take effect in the Netherlands on July 1, 2026, and requires truck owners to pay per kilometer driven on virtually all highways and on a selection of provincial and municipal roads. The toll applies to Dutch and foreign vehicles in categories N2 and N3, with a maximum technical mass exceeding 3,500 kilograms. The rate depends on the vehicle’s weight and CO₂ emissions: the cleaner and lighter the truck, the lower the amount per kilometer.
The revenue from the toll is largely used to fund subsidies for sustainability and innovation in the transportation sector, such as the purchase of electric and hydrogen trucks.
