It is rare for environmental organizations and federations representing carriers and manufacturers to speak with one voice, so this is worth mentioning: the IRU, ACEA and Transport & Environment are calling on the European Commission to ensure the continuity of European funding for heavy-duty vehicle charging infrastructure and hydrogen filling stations.
Now that all budget decisions are under pressure, the three associations want to exert pressure to prevent a financing shortage for fast charging stations and (future) hydrogen stations. Currently, these investments are supported for approximately EUR 3 billion by the AFIF fund (Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Fund), but this fund is not guaranteed after 2026-2027. T&E, ACEA and IRU report informal discussions suggesting that the AFIF fund will not be extended: “Without a dedicated instrument set up before the start of the EU’s next Multiannual Financial Framework in 2028, the rollout of charging infrastructure and hydrogen refueling stations for heavy-duty vehicles risks losing momentum. This comes at a time when zero-emission trucks are entering the market and investment is increasing across the value chain.”
