23 Mar
A recent strategic report by AllChiefs, Scania, and the Smart Freight Centre indicates that the challenge for electric heavy-duty vehicles has shifted from technological innovation to large-scale industrial implementation. While the first half of 2025 saw a global surge with 90,000 units sold—primarily in China—Europe is now at a crossroads. Markets like the Netherlands and Sweden are leading the way with 10% adoption rates, yet the continent must accelerate to meet the EU mandate of a 45% emission reduction by 2030.
The transition faces significant structural hurdles. High acquisition costs compared to diesel, a fragmented charging network, and power grid congestion remain the primary barriers for carriers. To achieve the necessary scale—where Zero-Emission Trucks (ZETs) should represent 35% of new sales by the next decade—the industry must move beyond pilot projects.
The report advocates for a fundamental shift in business models: transitioning from simple “buy-and-sell” transactions to deep, risk-sharing partnerships. Solutions include developing shared charging infrastructures and data platforms to optimize energy use. Ultimately, the competitiveness of European logistics depends on a coordinated effort between shippers, OEMs, and governments to de-risk investments and ensure that electric transport becomes not only the most sustainable choice but also the most cost-effective one.
Source: consultancy.eu, AllChiefs
