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The Eurovignette is set to be reformed. EU tightens CO2-based truck tolls.

The EU's truck toll system has been criticized for years. It is complicated, inconsistent, and difficult to implement. Now, the European Council is responding by aiming to promote the Eurovignette. But will clearer rules be enough to promote climate-friendly freight transport?

More clarity, more unity!

The European Council wants to simplify and specify toll rules, especially for heavy commercial vehicles. Therefore, they issued a negotiating mandate for changes to the Eurovignette guideline.

The goal is to provide more legal clarity, facilitate the implementation of regulations, and ensure the consistent application of CO2-based fees.

There will be precise guidelines for the new CO2 rules.

On July 1, 2026, new CO2 emission standards will take effect for heavy-duty vehicles. The regulation requires clear definitions of "zero-emission vehicles" and "low-emission commercial vehicles." It also outlines when CO2-based toll differentials will apply to specific vehicle categories and establishes a uniform implementation timeline.

However, the reform is accompanied by technical improvements, such as software updates and modifications. While these improvements can reduce emissions, they do not improve the CO2 rating.

Within the next two years, the European Council requests that the European Commission examine solutions.

Is a toll reduction possible?

Nevertheless, some trucks use more sustainable trailers. The feasibility of reducing tolls for these vehicles remains uncertain.

The European Council declines. Allowing this would be difficult. It would lead to higher administrative costs, a complex fee structure, and conflicts with the implementation of an electronic toll system.

Efforts to achieve greater clarity and consistency in truck tolls are awaiting negotiation with the European Parliament. These discussions will determine whether a simple, fully CO2-based system can be successfully implemented.

 

Source: Pixabay/highway_green_blue-179971

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