
Road transport remains the most important modality for inland transport. It offers significant flexibility, and service levels tend to be high due to strong competition among hauliers.
Weights and Dimensions
A previous proposal by the European Commission did not gain sufficient support from the Member States. The current Danish Presidency is now working on the issue. The new legislation should pave the way for (heavier) electric vehicles. At the same time, it should allow Eco-combis to cross multiple borders within the EU. Eco-combis can contribute to the decarbonisation of transport, as their fuel consumption is approximately 20% more efficient than that of traditional vehicles.
The impact that wider acceptance of longer and heavier vehicles may have on the goal of modal shift should be carefully monitored.
Greening Fleets
The coming years will be a turning point for the deployment of electric trucks. Shippers should play a catalytic role in the decarbonisation of transport. At the same time, ESC must continue to safeguard the interests of shippers and own-account transport operators. Investments in electric trucks should be made with consideration for the needs of SMEs and own-account operators. Legislators should strike a careful balance between decarbonisation goals and the economic realities of those using trucks for relatively short distances.
Social
It is essential to keep jobs in transport and logistics attractive. Shippers are working with other associations to improve working conditions for drivers and logistics personnel. Initiatives include safe parking (in collaboration with ESPORG), better working conditions at shippers' premises (through a charter with IRU), and support for the Spanish Shippers’ Council’s national program. ESC also supports campaigns aimed at attracting new target groups, such as women, to the transport sector.