Overview
- The Netherlands has put a new per‑kilometre toll into effect for N2/N3 trucks over 3.5 tonnes that requires an on‑board unit (OBU) tied to a toll contract and replaces the Eurovignette for Dutch roads.
- Dutch toll rates vary by vehicle weight and emissions class, electric trucks pay lower rates but not zero, and the government will temporarily cut tariffs by 22.3% from September through the end of 2026.
- Operators face an immediate technical hurdle because many foreign OBUs, including those from Toll Collect and Satellic, do not work in the Dutch system, and driving without a valid contract or functioning OBU risks fines that are halved for the first six months.
- Belgium’s three regions have agreed the design of a single, plate‑linked digital vignette for cars up to 3.5 tonnes with short‑term and annual options, emissions‑tiered pricing, ANPR enforcement, sales via an online platform and authorised retailers, and a €70 penalty for non‑compliance, but the plan still needs regional parliamentary votes and European Commission approval before it can start.
- Both policies are meant to raise funds for road maintenance and cleaner fleets, so Belgium plans compensatory changes to regional vehicle taxes to avoid discrimination against domestic owners and the EU review will be key for final approval; cross‑border drivers and hauliers should prepare for new costs and registration requirements.