As of April 2025, Belgium has implemented a temporary exemption from the tachograph requirement for electric light commercial vehicles (eLCVs) up to 4.25 tonnes used in goods transport. This decision, published by the Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport, aims to remove administrative barriers that may hinder the adoption of electric vans in urban logistics and short-range transport.
Scope of the Exemption
The exemption applies specifically to:
- Electric vans (M1 or N1 category) with a gross vehicle weight between 3.5 and 4.25 tonnes
- Used for goods transport within Belgium
- Driven by individuals not subject to the rules on driving and rest times
This measure is aligned with Regulation (EU) No 165/2014 and reflects the flexibility offered under the revised Mobility Package, which allows such exemptions under national law for specific vehicle categories.
Background and Rationale
Electric vans tend to be heavier than their diesel counterparts due to battery weight. To compensate, EU Directive (EU) 2019/1242 allows Member States to treat electric vans up to 4.25 tonnes as equivalent to conventional 3.5-tonne vehicles for licensing and operational purposes. Belgium has now extended this logic to tachograph obligations, effectively removing a regulatory hurdle for operators switching to zero-emission delivery fleets.
The measure is temporary, pending further EU-wide harmonisation and possible updates in tachograph legislation. In the meantime, it supports Belgium’s climate and air quality goals by facilitating the use of BEVs in the professional transport sector.
Implementation
Operators of eligible vehicles must ensure that the following conditions are met:
- The vehicle is powered solely by an electric drivetrain.
- The gross weight does not exceed 4.25 tonnes.
- The driver does not fall under the EU regulations on driving and rest times.
Enforcement authorities have been informed of the exemption, which is expected to boost uptake of eLCVs, especially in last-mile and urban freight delivery segments.
Policy Implications
This exemption reflects Belgium’s broader commitment to decarbonising road transport, in line with its National Energy and Climate Plan and the EU’s “Fit for 55” targets. Reducing regulatory burdens can play a significant role in accelerating the transition of commercial vehicle fleets toward zero-emission alternatives.
Other EU Member States considering similar exemptions may look to Belgium’s implementation as a reference case. However, national exemptions must always be balanced against the need to maintain road safety and driver welfare.
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Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.
