Background

This initiative complements CO₂ emission-based tolling introduced by Directive (EU) 2022/362, as envisaged in recital 31 of that directive. When that directive was adopted, a legal framework for certifying the effect of trailers on the CO₂ emissions of heavy goods vehicle combinations was not yet available.

European Commission proposal

On 4 May 2023, the Commission tabled a proposal for a directive amending Directive 1999/62/EC (the Eurovignette Directive), Council Directive 1999/37/EC (on registration documents for vehicles) and Directive (EU) 2019/520 (on the interoperability of electronic road toll systems) as regards the CO₂ emission class of heavy-duty vehicles with trailers.

The Commission adopted the original proposal COM(2023) 189 on 4 May 2023, followed by a supplementary proposal COM(2025) 589 on 2 October 2025. The original proposal aimed to amend Directive 1999/62/EC so that road charging schemes would take account of the effect of trailers on the CO₂ emissions of heavy goods vehicle combinations. The supplementary proposal adjusts references to other EU legislation, ensures sufficient time for implementing the changes, and clarifies how to classify vehicles in cases where the existing rules could give rise to differing interpretations.

European Parliament position

On 7 May 2026, the Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) adopted its report and decided to enter interinstitutional negotiations. The decision was confirmed by plenary on 20 May 2026.

A provisional agreement on toll reduction for low-emission trucks and buses until 30 June 2031 was reached on 30 June 2026. A decision on incorporating the impact of trailers into toll calculations was postponed pending a European Commission assessment, due by 30 June 2029. The Commission may subsequently put forward a legislative proposal based on that assessment.

On 2 September 2026, the TRAN committee endorsed the provisional agreement resulting from interinstitutional negotiations. The agreement clarifies the rules governing CO₂ emission classes to ensure that toll rates accurately reflect the CO₂ emissions of trucks, buses and coaches. By clarifying implementation timelines and technical definitions, the agreement seeks to ensure consistent application of the 'polluter pays' principle across the EU. Key provisions address the classification of retrofitted vehicles, the treatment of vocational trucks, and the reinstatement of specific emission reduction targets to maintain legal consistency.