Electric Truck Adoption Struggles Despite Strong Growth in Europe

Electric heavy-duty truck sales in Europe are rising rapidly but remain far below the levels needed to meet 2030 climate targets. According to industry reports, battery-electric and plug-in hybrid trucks over 3.5 tons reached 4.2% market share in 2025, up from 2.3% a year earlier. Mid-year data from the Smart Freight Centre put electric trucks at just 3.6% of the market, despite more than 50% year-on-year growth.

The uneven adoption highlights structural challenges: high purchase prices, unfavorable total cost of ownership, gaps in charging infrastructure, and inconsistent public incentives across EU member states. Growth is concentrated in markets with strong support and infrastructure—most notably the Netherlands (+205%), Germany (+40%), and France (+31%)—which together account for nearly two-thirds of EU registrations. Experts call for stronger economic signals, coordinated public procurement, and expanded charging networks to accelerate the transition and achieve scale.