European HGV toll network takes a step closer

A system of pan-European HGV tolls has taken a step closer after a deal was hammered out between MEPs, the European Commission (EC) and the Council of Ministers.

The introduction of the Eurovignette Directive will see at least 15% of the money raised from the tolls spent on TEN-T (Trans-European Transport Networks) and the rest on sustainable transport systems, if successful

Said El Khadraoui, MEP, rapporteur (sponsor) for the directive, says: "Transparency is essential - operators must know what is being done with their money."

Eurovignette allows member states to charge vehicles above 3.5 tonnes for their impact on air and noise pollution as well as infrastructure costs. Cleaner vehicles will be encouraged by a two-year exemption for those that meet Euro-5 and Euro-6 standards.

Member state participation is voluntary, but could become mandatory in four years after a EC review. The deal, as stands, faces a vote of the full parliament on 8 June. If passed it could become law as early as this autumn.