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CLECAT reiterates its strong opposition to the introduction of zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) targets for corporate fleets, including for shippers and large transport buyers, as stated in its position paper issued last month. Representing a broad and diverse membership of companies of all sizes across freight forwarding, logistics, and customs services, we argue that such mandates risk creating market distortions, increasing operational costs, and ultimately undermining Europe’s decarbonisation goals. A one-size-fits-all regulatory approach fails to reflect the diverse operational realities and economic constraints across the industry.

CLECAT warns that ZEV targets imposed on shippers or transport buyers would artificially inflate vehicle prices, strain supply chains, and place an unsustainable burden on SMEs, which make up the majority of the European logistics sector. Many operators, particularly smaller businesses, lack the financial flexibility to rapidly transition to zero-emission fleets, given persistent challenges such as inadequate charging infrastructure, high upfront costs, and uncertain returns on investment. CLECAT also highlights the administrative complexity of tracking and reporting ZEV compliance across fragmented supply chains, where subcontracting and last-minute operational adjustments are standard practice. Such mandates could inadvertently lead to delayed fleet renewal, resulting in older, more polluting vehicles remaining in service longer than intended.

Instead of prescriptive targets, CLECAT advocates for market-driven solutions that incentivise decarbonisation without stifling competition or innovation. The association calls for financial and fiscal incentives, such as tax rebates, road charge exemptions for ZEVs, and credit guarantees to reduce the upfront costs and ultimately the total cost of ownership and make zero-emission vehicles a feasible option for all operators. CLECAT also urges the European Commission to prioritise charging/refuelling infrastructure development, including grid upgrades and streamlined permitting for charging points, and to ensure that revenues from carbon pricing mechanisms, like the ETS 2 are reinvested into the decarbonisation of road freight transport. Adopting technology-neutral policies and targeted funding will help Europe can achieve its climate objectives while preserving the competitiveness and resilience of its logistics industry.

For further details, the full position paper is available on the CLECAT website.