Europe’s transport sector could face significant obstacles on its path toward decarbonization if public support remains focused solely on the purchase of zero-emission vehicles. This is the position taken by the Polish International Road Transport Association (ZMPD), which has called on the European Commission to review the current state aid framework for the transport industry.
According to the association, the existing EU rules adopted in 2023 primarily support the acquisition of electric and hydrogen-powered trucks but pay insufficient attention to the infrastructure needed for their large-scale deployment.
Without Infrastructure, the Green Transition Could Slow Down
ZMPD argues that the development of zero-emission truck fleets requires a comprehensive approach. In addition to the vehicles themselves, substantial investments are needed in charging stations, hydrogen refueling facilities, electricity grid upgrades, and energy distribution systems.
The challenge is particularly significant for small and medium-sized transport companies, which make up a large share of Europe’s road freight market. For many operators, purchasing a zero-emission truck already represents a major financial commitment, while the additional costs of building private charging infrastructure are often prohibitive without government support.
The association also points out that existing power grids in many parts of Europe are not yet prepared to handle the simultaneous charging of large numbers of heavy-duty vehicles. Further complications arise from lengthy permitting procedures and administrative requirements related to the construction of energy infrastructure.
According to ZMPD, EU member states should be allowed to provide financial support not only for the purchase of environmentally friendly vehicles but also for the development of the supporting infrastructure required to operate them. Such an approach would significantly accelerate the adoption of low-emission technologies and help the European Union achieve its climate objectives.
Representatives of the organization emphasize that investments in infrastructure will generate long-term benefits not only for the transport sector but also for society as a whole. Expected outcomes include improved air quality, reduced urban noise levels, growth in the clean technology sector, and the creation of new jobs.
The European Commission is currently reviewing the existing state aid framework, and ZMPD’s proposal could become part of future regulatory changes. The decisions taken in the coming years may have a significant impact on the pace of electric and hydrogen truck deployment across Europe.
Industry experts note that the success of Europe’s freight transport decarbonization strategy will depend not only on the number of zero-emission trucks on the road but also on how quickly the infrastructure supporting them is developed. As a result, support for charging stations, electricity networks, and hydrogen refueling facilities is becoming one of the key issues shaping the future of the EU transport sector.
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