More than a dozen cities in the Netherlands plan to prohibit entry into city centers for vehicles older than Euro-5 standards starting in 2025, while the majority in parliament urges caution regarding this new regulation.
This is reported by NOS, as noted by "European Truth".
A total of fourteen cities in the Netherlands intend to designate zones in city centers from January 1, 2025, where the entry of cars older than 15 years that do not meet the Euro-5 environmental standard will be banned.
This includes major cities such as Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam.
The intentions have sparked a political debate with the parliamentary majority, as coalition parties agreed in their agreement to consider postponing "emission-free zones." Meanwhile, mayors formally have the authority to implement these changes and determine when to do so.
Local authorities believe they have the right to assert their position since discussions about these plans were held well in advance in consultations with the government and business associations.
The business association RAI expressed surprise at the debate over "to postpone or not" just months before the set date, given that the new coalition holds a different viewpoint, as preparations for the new regulations began nearly 10 years ago.
Instead, they urged the government to focus on issues hindering the transition, such as the lack of fast charging stations, at a time when the number of electric vehicles is rapidly increasing.
It is worth noting that Norway set a world record for the number of electric vehicles sold in August 2024.
The United Kingdom has ceased coal-fired electricity production since October.