Belgium has emerged as a leader in electromobility in 2024, surpassing several countries facing setbacks or slower progress.
Despite political uncertainty, EV Belgium’s goals remain steadfast.
“By the end of 2025, we aim to reach or exceed 100,000 public charging points and put 400,000 electric vehicles (EVs) on the road,” explain Philippe Vangeel, Operational Director, and Romain Denayer, Coordinator of the federation.
This year has been pivotal in shaping these objectives.
Market growth and consumer trends
“The EV market has achieved a penetration rate of 27%, meaning more than one in four cars sold is fully electric,” says Vangeel in an interview with Mobility Portal Europe.
Belgium’s success is partly driven by corporate fleet registrations, but 2024 also marked a notable uptick in private EV sales.
“This growth can be attributed to two factors,” explains Denayer: direct subsidies encouraging private buyers and brands adjusting their pricing to align with subsidy schemes and introducing more affordable models.
In September, EVs became the best-selling type of vehicle in Belgium—a trend that continues to rise.
However, the removal of subsidies poses challenges.
“We may see a dip in private EV registrations over the next six months, similar to what occurred in Germany, though we hope the impact here will be less pronounced,” notes Denayer.
Vangeel remains optimistic: “Even without subsidies, we are seeing better EV models at more competitive prices, which will sustain growth.”
Charging infrastructure accelerates
Belgium’s charging network has seen significant expansion, growing from 50,000 public chargers in 2023 to nearly 80,000 by the end of 2024.
“There has been a clear acceleration, particularly in fast charging,” says Denayer.
However, regional disparities persist.
Flanders leads the way, while Wallonia is catching up, bolstered by new operators and increased political ambition.
“The new government in Wallonia, elected in June, has prioritized fast chargers, promising to address regional imbalances,” adds Denayer.
He anticipates further growth in 2025, including long-delayed public AC concessions finally coming to fruition.
Heavy transport and bus electrification
Belgium also saw significant strides in heavy transport electrification in 2024.
The Port of Antwerp inaugurated one of Europe’s largest public charging hubs for electric heavy-duty vehicles.
Led by Milence—a joint venture between Daimler Truck, TRATON GROUP, and Volvo Group—this facility features ten chargers powering 20 points at up to 400 kilowatts each.
“Although still in its early stages, these initiatives signal a growing commitment from transport companies to cleaner trucks,” says Vangeel.
In the bus sector, one in four vehicles registered in 2024 was fully electric, highlighting progress.
However, heavy-duty truck registrations remain slightly behind neighboring countries.
Vangeel also highlights regulatory support: “Authorities are granting exemptions for longer eTrucks to accommodate battery-related design requirements, demonstrating their willingness to facilitate solutions for the sector.”
Navigating political uncertainty
Belgium’s lack of a consolidated federal government adds complexity to long-term planning.
Fiscal measures critical to the electromobility sector remain uncertain, and negotiations are ongoing.
“We hope for clarity by year-end, but the absence of consensus risks delaying key actions,” concludes Vangeel.
Looking ahead
Despite these challenges, Belgium’s eMobility sector remains on a strong trajectory, with clear goals and a growing commitment from stakeholders across regions and industries.
The milestones of 2024 lay a solid foundation for continued growth in 2025, advancing Belgium’s position as a leader in sustainable mobility.
