The UK has reached the top 10 EU countries fast tracking green transport, with the Netherlands topping the table thanks to access to EV chargers, according to a report by rapid charging solutions provider Heliox.
Heliox conducted research evaluating EU countries across a series of criteria to measure intent and actions towards this green transport transition, and now releases the rankings of the most advanced countries in Europe when it comes to achieving green transport goals.
The analysis found that the Netherlands, Sweden, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Denmark rank higher and are the most advanced countries in terms of green transportation initiatives and infrastructure. These European countries expressed their commitment by improving access to public transportation and promoting the use of green passenger car vehicles, and short-term net zero goals.
The UK, Estonia, France, Lithuania, and Austria rounded out the Top 10 list. Despite larger nations such as the UK, France and Germany planning to invest a total of €200bn (£167bn) to meet net zero goals, smaller countries such as Luxembourg and Sweden rank above them.
The Netherlands, which has the greatest EV charger infrastructure with more than 90,000 charger locations, has outlined an ambitious goal to become carbon neutral by 2050 and for 100% of vehicle sales to be zero-emission vehicles by 2030, helping it top the table.
Heliox added because Sweden, Luxembourg and Estonia have small populations, these countries will have larger density of EV chargers. However, except for Luxembourg, the economic incentives to promote green transport is what is boosting their overall position.
Estonia was ranked the most favourably for economic incentives for private EVs, offering citizens up to €18,000 (£15,000), which is limited to a maximum of 50% of the vehicle price, whilst the UK and the Netherlands ranked 19th and 20th.
Michael Colijn, CEO of Heliox, said: “Though operating in different manners, these countries are leading the charge with their multifaceted approach bringing them a step closer to a zero-emission future. So much so that they’re leaving a blueprint for every country to follow suit in their decarbonisation journey.”
