European road transport groups call for changes to truck charging rules
Two European transport organisations have called for changes to the European Union’s charging infrastructure framework to support the deployment of electric heavy-duty trucks.
The International Road Transport Union (IRU) and Transport & Environment (T&E) are urging the European Commission to address the role of semi-private charging infrastructure as part of the planned revision of the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR).
Their proposal focuses on charging facilities at logistics depots and other locations used by commercial transport operators, where access may be restricted or shared among a limited number of businesses.
The organisations argue that these facilities should receive greater recognition within the EU regulatory framework, alongside publicly accessible charging stations. Their position reflects the operational requirements of heavy-duty vehicles, which often rely on scheduled depot stops and established transport routes.
Charging infrastructure and regulatory framework
AFIR establishes requirements for alternative-fuel infrastructure across the European transport network, including publicly accessible charging facilities for heavy-duty vehicles.
The proposed changes would address charging locations that do not operate as fully public facilities but could nevertheless serve multiple transport operators.
IRU and T&E are calling for a regulatory approach that better reflects the practical conditions under which electric trucks operate, including the availability of charging at depots and logistics facilities.
The initiative remains a policy proposal. No amendment to AFIR has been adopted as a result of the organisations’ request.
The organisations are also seeking measures to simplify permitting and grid connections, include semi-private charging in national infrastructure and energy planning, and improve access to relevant funding.
They emphasise that participation should remain voluntary, allowing depot operators to retain control over access and prioritise their own transport operations.
The joint request was submitted to European Commission Executive Vice-President Teresa Ribera and Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas.
