Dutch €22 M incentive for zero-emission trucks almost exhausted in one day

The additional round of the Zero-Emission Trucks (AanZET) subsidy program for 2024 in the Netherlands was almost entirely allocated in just one day. Of the €22.2 million budget, €21.4 million was applied for, as companies feel the pressure with several Dutch cities introducing zero-emission zones in 2025. According to the Ministry, a new round of applications will open at the end of January 2025 to meet unprecedented requests.

The strong demand for subsidies in the current round confirms that entrepreneurs need this backing to invest in zero-emission vehicles to transition their logistics businesses.

For many entrepreneurs, financial support is crucial to make the switch to zero-emission transport, as the sector is pushed in part by the introduction of more and more LEZ zones (ZE-zones) in various Dutch cities.

‘A huge challenge’

Frits van Bruggen, Chairman of the RAI Association, stresses the importance of subsidies like the AanZET scheme. “The transport sector is facing a considerable challenge. Truck manufacturers are doing their part by bringing more electric trucks to market, and entrepreneurs are willing to make the switch.”

“However, an electric truck is three times more expensive than a diesel one. Without the AanZET subsidy, such an investment is unfeasible for many companies,” said Van Bruggen.

In addition to these vehicle subsidies, investments in charging infrastructure are also essential, mainly because of the higher investment in the grid intensity related to truck charging – not to mention the demands for megawatt charging.

SPRILA (Subsidy Scheme for Private Charging Infrastructure at Companies) and SPULA (Subsidy for Public Charging Infrastructure for Heavy Transport) help companies develop the necessary charging facilities.

Van Bruggen points out the current limitations: “The number of fast-charging stations is insufficient, and the capacity of energy and network operators needs urgent expansion. It can’t be that a company invests in an electric truck but then has to charge it.”

More and more LEZ zones

More and more Dutch cities are introducing environmental zones, particularly targeting diesel vehicles. These zones mainly affect trucks and delivery vans, but passenger cars increasingly face stricter requirements.

Previously, environmental zones were confusing, with different rules in each city. Now, they are based on the Euro-class of the engine, making it easier for drivers to know where they can drive. There are 29 cities involved, implementing their deadlines on different dates. The complete list can be found here.

In cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, trucks must meet the Euro 6 standard or higher, but zero-emission drivelines can roam freely. This rule applies to buses in fewer cities. Vehicle owners who don’t meet these standards can usually apply for exemptions, for example, if they have ordered a cleaner vehicle that has yet to be delivered.

In 2025, vehicle regulations are expected to become even stricter for passenger cars. Cities may introduce zones where only vehicles with Euro 5 or higher are allowed or even fully emission-free zones. In contrast to Flanders, where the new government has decided not to proceed with the further stages of its LEZ program in cities.