Groningen businesses reportedly drive personal cars to bypass zero-emission zone
Some business owners in Groningen are reportedly using personal cars instead of delivery vans to navigate the city’s zero-emission zone, RTV Noord reports.
Nearly a year ago, Groningen introduced a zero-emission zone in the city center. The measure gradually prohibits older delivery and freight vehicles while requiring new commercial vehicles to be fully emission-free. The goal is to improve air quality, reduce noise, and create more space for pedestrians and cyclists.
However, the rules do not restrict personal cars, including gasoline and diesel models. Some entrepreneurs have reportedly exploited this loophole to continue accessing the city center without switching to electric vehicles.
“‘If you have a delivery van, you get restricted,’ John Meijer, owner of a downtown coffee shop, told RTV Noord. ‘But with a personal car, it’s different. There are so many loopholes in these rules.’”
Meijer added that he considered buying a delivery van but could not afford an electric model as a small business owner. “When we reviewed the rules, it turns out you can get into the city much more easily with a personal car than with a van.”
Other entrepreneurs have made similar adjustments. Jacco Boddeus, owner of a party supply store, sold his diesel van six months ago for 500 euros, citing the regulation’s effect on its resale value. He replaced it with a gasoline car, which is heavier and consumes more fuel than his previous van. “It’s strange that this car is allowed while my van is not,” Boddeus told RTV Noord.
A Groningen municipal spokesperson acknowledged the trend but said the city anticipated it would be limited to a small group. “We do not consider a separate approach necessary for this group. Most entrepreneurs use delivery vans for a reason and will not simply switch to personal cars. The law does not allow us to enforce a zero-emission zone for personal vehicles,” the spokesperson said.
