Calls for an EU-wide mandate that sets clear zero-emission corporate fleet targets are being backed by leading European businesses including E.On Drive, Geopost and Ikea.

A corporate fleet mandate would increase the number of EVs on the EU’s roads up to 2035

Global non-profit Climate Group’s flagship initiatives EV100 and EV100+ say that zero-emission corporate fleet targets for cars, vans and medium- and heavy-duty vehicles (MHDVs) would be an important measure to speed up the uptake of zero-emission vehicles in Europe.

In a letter to the European Commission, the group calls for a clear, well-implemented mandate that would ensure the EU remains a key market for zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) and underline the bloc’s status as a climate leader.

It would also set a clear direction to all EU fleet owners and operators that they should invest in ZEVs – driving demand that could boost European automaker competitiveness.

Investment by large firms today will boost the second-hand market for ZEVs tomorrow, which will enable SMEs to make the switch as well. It would also lower pollution and positively impact air quality in Europe.

The call is supported by 18 leading businesses as part of the EV100 and EV100+ initiatives.

EV100 members have already committed to switch their fleets to electric by 2030, and EV100+ members are investing in zero-emission technologies for heavier trucks too. A corporate fleet mandate would mean all fleet operators moving forward along a set, ambitious timeline.

The call comes as the European People’s Party pushes to weaken the EU policy that phases out CO2-producing cars by 2035. The Climate Group has warned such a move would put the EU’s competitiveness as risk and jeopardise the enormous investments businesses have already made in EVs.

Dominic Phinn, head of transport at Climate Group, said: “Road transport accounts for the bulk of the EU’s transport sector emissions, and decarbonising this sector is vital if the EU is to reach its commitments in line with the Paris Agreement. A corporate fleet mandate for all vehicles is a key tool the EU should be using to drive emissions down.

“EV100 and EV100+ members have welcomed the adoption of key regulations at EU level, such as the Regulation on CO2 emissions standards for cars, vans and MHDVs and the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR), and these will complement a fleet mandate by ensuring supply of ZEVs and consistent deployment of charging infrastructure across the EU.

“EV100 and EV100+ members have already committed to specific zero emission fleet targets across vehicle segments and we want to work with the European Commission in the design of the initiative to help businesses switch to zero emission faster.”

Davide Villa, CEO at E.On Drive, said a mandate would provide businesses with the necessary certainty to invest in infrastructure and electric fleets today, paving the way for a significant reduction in emissions.

He stressed: “Clear and binding decarbonisation plans enable companies such as E.ON Drive to proactively address challenges such as grid connectivity, ensuring a smoother transition to electrified fleets. This not only accelerates our collective efforts towards a zero-emission future but also strengthens Europe’s position as a leader in climate action.”