Leading logistics companies and brands call on EU to set higher targets for green trucks
Around 41 companies from the German logistics industry, including DPDHL, Kühne and Nagel, Contargo and Knauf, along with international corporations such as Nike, Heineken and PepsiCo, have submitted a petition to the European Union (EU) calling for increased climate targets for the EU's truck fleet. The main aim of this petition is to encourage the use of 'zero-emission' trucks and reduce the environmental impact of the automotive industry.
In a joint statement, the companies have called on MEPs and EU governments to increase fleet limits to -65% by 2030, from the -45% currently proposed. Their aim is to ensure that ambitious regulations are put in place and the target levels set by manufacturers are met.
This proposed adjustment could result in a significant increase in the number of green trucks on European roads by 2030, exceeding the European Commission's proposal by more than 150,000 units, according to the signatories of the letter.
Increase fleet limits and set clear dates for the transition to emission-free vehicles
In addition, these companies are also calling for the EU to set a precise date by which all new trucks must be emission-free. This would provide a clear timeframe for the adoption of more sustainable vehicles.
The signatories of the petition also want the climate targets to apply to all types of trucks, thereby ensuring that manufacturers increase production of 'zero-emission' vehicles in all segments. Currently, the Commission's proposal excludes certain types of vehicles, such as garbage trucks, construction trucks and some urban delivery vehicles.
Julian Fassin, Project Management Officer (PMO) for Knauf Insulation’s central supply chain, highlighted that the lack of ambitious EU targets for ‘zero-emission’ trucks hampers the ability of companies like Knauf to accelerate the transition. It is therefore crucial to correct current policies and align legal requirements with companies’ ambitions, thereby ensuring a more sustainable future for freight transport in Europe.
