How the EU Is Steering the Trucking Industry Toward Decarbonization
The race to achieve net-zero emissions is reshaping the European trucking and logistics industry. As part of the EU Green Deal, the European Union is rolling out new climate policies that will transform road freight transport, fleet management, and driver operations across the continent.
Egala by Boekestijn Transport is among the trucking companies contributing to this transformation, focusing on sustainable trucking solutions, AI-driven fleet optimization, and driver wellbeing.
The EU first formalized its climate targets in 2016, pledging a 40% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. In 2020, that target grew to 55%, setting a clear path toward climate neutrality by 2050. These goals are now materializing through strict CO₂ emission standards that reshape how heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs) operate, accelerate zero-emission truck adoption, and promote green transportation practices across Europe. For trucking companies like Egala, this evolution means rethinking every aspect of fleet operations, from driver onboarding and retention to AI in transport logistics, predictive maintenance, and smart route management.
The 2024 revision of the EU’s CO₂ standards for trucks, buses, and trailers represents a decisive step in achieving a zero-emission transport system.
Key targets include:
Additionally, 90% of new urban buses sold by 2030 must be zero-emission, reaching 100% by 2035. This regulation now covers most HDVs over 7.5 tonnes, ensuring nearly every segment contributes to sustainable logistics.
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The European Commission projects that the total cost of ownership for next-generation trucks will drop by up to €9,000 by 2030 and €41,000 by 2040. Lower fuel consumption, reduced maintenance costs, and digital fleet management systems make this transition both sustainable and economically viable.
For a trucking company like Egala, this evolution involves rethinking fleet operations, from driver onboarding and retention, to AI-enabled logistics, predictive maintenance, and smarter route and load management.
While policy momentum is strong, charging infrastructure remains a challenge. Under the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) and Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), the EU aims to ensure charging points every 60 km and hydrogen refueling every 200 km.
However, adoption is uneven, especially for long-haul transport. To fully realize electric mobility, Europe must expand high-capacity charging networks and improve driver support systems, from rest areas and healthy meals to fitness options for truck drivers.
At Egala, driver wellbeing is a top priority. Programs addressing truck driver health, sleep schedules, and healthy eating habits ensure that sustainability extends beyond vehicles — to the people behind the wheel.
The EU’s first CO₂ standards under Regulation (EU) 2019/1242 took effect in 2025, requiring 15% lower emissions for new HDVs. Yet many fleets remain old — with an average age of nearly 14 years — and modernizing requires investment in both technology and people.
As the industry shifts toward cleaner and more efficient transport, the role of technology in everyday trucking operations continues to grow. From AI logistics tools and predictive maintenance systems to real-time route planning and driver assistance technologies, digital solutions are helping fleets operate more efficiently and safely.
However, innovation alone is not enough. The human factor remains central to the success of decarbonization efforts. Drivers need ongoing training to adapt to new vehicle technologies, understand eco-driving techniques, and make the best use of digital tools on the road. Companies are also recognizing the importance of driver wellbeing, focusing on areas such as mental health, work-life balance, and healthy lifestyle habits during long-haul operations.
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The road to net-zero is not just about vehicles, it’s about systems integration. Expanding the TEN-T network, adopting multimodal transport solutions, and integrating blockchain, AI, and machine learning in logistics are reshaping how freight moves across Europe.
As one of Europe’s most innovative trucking companies, Egala’s commitment to digital transformation in transport includes:
This holistic approach ensures that sustainability, safety, and innovation move hand in hand.
The EU’s decarbonization plan marks a new era for European logistics. It demands collaboration, innovation, and long-term commitment, but it also opens doors to smarter, cleaner, and more efficient freight transport.
From electric trucks to healthy lifestyles on the road, Egala’s vision of sustainable logistics shows that the road to net-zero isn’t just about reducing emissions, it’s about empowering the people and technologies that move Europe forward.
