Eco-Kombi’s, longer and heavier vehicles, are currently not allowed in Germany. There is, however, a chance that by the end of this year, after a test with these vehicles and a positive review by the minister, Germany’s position on Eco-Kombi’s will change.
The granting of access to Eco-Kombi’s is especially important for Germany’s neighboring countries. The Netherlands, for instance, cannot take part in the test as foreign parties are not allowed to participate. Additionally, the European Directive on Eco-Kombi’s prohibits the border crossing of these vehicles. It is, however, possible to uncouple and couple the combination at the borders.
The Dutch shippers organization stresses that free movement is highly important for European shippers.