The Dutch transport sector will receive a major boost towards sustainability and innovation in the coming years, thanks to the introduction of the truck levy.
From 2026 to 2030, it is estimated that more than €1,6 billion will be raised through this levy, which is specifically intended to enable investments in cleaner and more efficient transport solutions, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management announced.
Minister Madlener, responsible for Infrastructure and Water Management, emphasizes that the truck levy is not only a necessary step, but also an opportunity for the sector. “With the truck levy, we are taking an important step towards the future together with the sector. We are investing in innovation and sustainability, so that our transport sector is prepared for the future,” according to the minister. According to her, the measure is intended to enable the sector to operate cleaner, more efficiently and ready for the future.
One of the key points of the sustainability plans is the so-called Purchase Subsidy Scheme for Zero-Emission Trucks (AanZET). This scheme aims to encourage companies to switch to zero-emission trucks, such as fully electric trucks. AanZET has been a great success since its launch. For example, on 1 October of this year, €22 million was still available for the purchase of these vehicles. But as with previous openings, this budget was completely exhausted within a few days. The enormous enthusiasm from the sector illustrates the growing demand for zero-emission means of transport, something that is clearly recognised and encouraged by the government.
subsidy scheme
In total, more than half of the total budget of the truck levy, approximately €980 million, will be spent on this subsidy scheme in the coming years. This amount should ensure that companies can more easily switch to more sustainable alternatives. But AanZET is not the only program that benefits from the revenues of the levy.
The ministry has announced five important measures to support the transition of the transport sector. In addition to the purchase subsidies, funds are also being made available for the construction of charging infrastructure for electric trucks and hydrogen filling stations. These facilities are crucial to enable the further spread of zero-emission trucks.
In addition, a significant portion of the budget is invested in research into innovations, such as technologies that allow trucks to charge while driving. This would not only increase the range of trucks, but also greatly improve the efficiency of long-distance transport. Furthermore, attention is paid to measures that should improve efficiency in logistics, such as optimizing routes and reducing empty kilometers.
The truck toll itself will come into effect from 2026 and will apply to both domestic and foreign trucks using Dutch roads.
The levy applies to trucks weighing 3.500 kilograms or more, and the amount of the contribution depends on the type of truck and the number of kilometers traveled. The rate is set at an average of €0,167 per kilometer (price level 2023). Lighter and cleaner trucks pay less. This variable levy is intended to encourage companies to invest in more sustainable vehicles and operations.
climate goals
The government expects that these measures will not only contribute to the climate goals of the Netherlands, but also to the position of the Dutch transport sector on the international market. Innovations such as electric charging while driving, for example, can offer a significant competitive advantage for Dutch companies in Europe. With these investments, the government hopes to create a climate in which sustainability and innovation go hand in hand, while the transport sector continues to grow and remain competitive.
Although the introduction of the truck levy has been a controversial topic in recent years, the benefits for the sector seem to be becoming increasingly visible. The significant investments in zero-emission vehicles, infrastructure and technological innovations show that the levy is much more than just a tax measure; it is an engine for change and innovation in the transport sector.
The coming years will be crucial for the rollout of these plans. If the sector succeeds in seizing the opportunities offered, the Netherlands can profile itself as one of the leaders in sustainable logistics and transport in Europe.