Mobility

Sales of fully electric cars in the EU surged almost 50 percent in March, with strong growth in plug‑in and hybrid models, while the Netherlands recorded a slight decline in fully electric sales.

The Dutch cabinet wants to introduce cheaper off-peak train fares this summer, backing a €49 subscription proposal to boost public transport use.

BOVAG chair Christianne van der Wal says targeted energy support would be more effective than cutting fuel taxes. She argues that broad tax reductions are costly and limited in impact, while focused measures could better support households and businesses facing rising costs.

The ANWB warns that the eCall emergency system in millions of cars may stop working when the 2G network is phased out. Without a solution, many vehicles could fail inspections, raising concerns about safety and costs.

The Dutch government is finalising a new package of energy measures, including subsidies for electric vehicle purchases and relief for households struggling with energy costs. Ministers are now consulting with opposition parties to secure support for the proposals before an official presentation on Monday.

Oil prices plunged by approximately 11% on Friday following the announcement that the Strait of Hormuz has reopened to commercial shipping. The strategic waterway, which carries 20% of the world's oil, had been largely closed by Iran during recent hostilities, causing significant market volatility. This de-escalation led US crude to fall to $83.30 and Brent crude to $87.90 a barrel, while European gas prices also dropped by nearly 8% as fears of a prolonged energy supply crisis began to fade.

Healthcare professionals are increasingly declining extra shifts as high fuel prices make commuting financially unviable. The professional body NU'91 has warned that current travel reimbursements are failing to cover costs, effectively forcing staff to pay to work. To combat rising stress and frustration among workers, the organisation is calling for mileage rates to be aligned with petrol prices and for smarter scheduling to reduce unnecessary travel.

Traffic deaths in the Netherlands rose to 759 in 2025, with cyclists, especially older men, among the most affected. CBS figures show a sharp increase in male fatalities and growing concerns about road safety investment.