TRAVIS Talk Weekly: Truck inspections scheduled | Amazon invests over $1 billion to electrify European transport network
Welcome to this week's edition of TRAVIS Talk
We’ve collected the latest news and insights to keep you informed about what’s happening in the industry. Dive into the updates that matter to you!
ON THE ROAD
European truck inspections scheduled for 2025
European authorities will conduct three large-scale truck inspection operations in 2025 as part of the ROADPOL ‘Truck & Bus’ initiative. These inspections, set for February, May, and November, will focus on vehicle technical conditions, load security, and compliance with driving and rest time regulations. Police across multiple countries will also check the proper use of tachographs and adherence to European social legislation. The first operation will take place from 17 to 23 February, followed by others in May and November.
EC confirms no return of vehicle rule in mobility package
The European Commission has confirmed that it will not reintroduce the annulled rule requiring trucks to return to their home base, following the Court of Justice of the EU’s decision in October. The Commission stated that no further legislative action is needed, as the annulment has direct legal effect across the EU. It reiterated concerns that the return obligation would have led to inefficiencies, increased emissions, and congestion. Industry body CLECAT welcomed this clarification and emphasized the importance of clear implementation of the Mobility Package to ensure fair competition and better working conditions for drivers.
EU moves forward with paperless freight transport under eFTI regulation
The European Union has taken a major step toward digitalizing freight transport with the implementation of the first eFTI (Electronic Freight Transport Information) regulation acts. These acts set the groundwork for IT systems that will enable the secure, standardized exchange of transport data across all modes, replacing traditional paper-based documentation. From July 2027, operators will be required to use certified eFTI platforms to share freight data with authorities and business partners, reducing administrative burdens and improving efficiency. The EU estimates potential savings of up to €1 billion annually for the transport sector, making eFTI a key driver of digital transformation.
Read more >> transport.ec.europa.eu
MARKET UPDATES
EU road transport CO2 emissions expected to peak in 2025
A new report from the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) indicates that road transport CO2 emissions in the European Union could peak in 2025, thanks to recently implemented vehicle emissions regulations. The study attributes this shift to the adoption of stringent CO2 standards for cars, vans, trucks, and buses, which have significantly closed the gap to align emissions with Paris Agreement targets. Emissions are projected to decline by 25% by 2035, marking a significant departure from previous trends. However, experts warn that weakening current regulations could jeopardize progress, highlighting the importance of maintaining ambitious climate policies to ensure long-term reductions.
Ralf Többe to take over as CEO of DB Schenker Germany/Switzerland
DB Schenker has announced that Ralf Többe will become the new CEO of its Germany/Switzerland region starting 1 April 2025, succeeding Roland Dressler, who is stepping down after 32 years with the company. Többe, currently serving as Executive Vice President for Land Transport in the region, brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at Stinnes AG, Kühne + Nagel, and GLS Germany. As DB Schenker transitions under its new ownership by DSV, Többe is expected to maintain his current responsibilities while leading the company through its next phase of growth and operational development.
INNOVATIVE TRANSPORTATION
Amazon invests over $1 billion to electrify European transport network
Amazon has announced a major investment of over $1 billion to accelerate the decarbonization of its European transportation network, including the purchase of more than 200 Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 electric trucks. These trucks will join Amazon’s fleet later this year, operating across the UK and Germany to transport over 350 million packages annually. The initiative aligns with Amazon’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040 and includes significant investments in charging infrastructure, with the installation of fast-charging stations at key locations. By addressing infrastructure challenges and scaling zero-emission transport, Amazon is setting a benchmark for sustainable logistics in Europe.
Upcoming events
LogiMAT - 11-13 March - Germany
Multimodaal Transport Expo - 13 March - Netherlands
SiTL - 1 -3 April - France
Transport Scandinavia - 3-5 April - Denmark