Following the publication of the European Commission’s Communication on “A Framework Strategy for a Resilient Energy Union with a Forward-Looking Climate Change Policy”, the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers, ACEM, welcomes the Commission’s plans to improve the deployment of alternative fuel recharging infrastructure.

According to ACEM’s estimations, only between 1% and 2% out of all L-category vehicles registered in Europe in 2014 were electric models. Ensuring that the adequate infrastructure is in place could substantially increase consumer acceptance of vehicles running on electricity or other alternative fuels. Moreover, the European Commission should do its utmost to include an explicit reference to the Type 3a plug standard in Directive 2014/94/EU on the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure.

ACEM manufacturers are carrying out in house development projects on electrically- and hydrogen-propelled vehicles, as well as hybrid models. However, if the EU is to “become a leader in electro-mobility” further European support should complement industry’s efforts in this area. This should be done through funding for research and demonstration projects aimed at informing citizens.

ACEM also believes that there is need to have similar incentives across the EU in order to support market uptake of vehicles running on alternative fuels. L-category vehicles should benefit from the same support measures dedicated to other means of transport, and support schemes should be similar in all European countries.

Commenting on the Commission’s Communication, ACEM Secretary General Antonio Perlot said: “L-category vehicles are smaller, lighter and more specialised than other vehicles. They reduce traffic congestion, bring significant environmental benefits and are a perfect candidate for running on alternative fuels. However, if the share of alternatively fuelled vehicles is to increase, decision-makers will have to achieve three major objectives: a higher availability of charging infrastructure, more public support for research projects, and providing adequate incentives to consumers”.

Documents available to download

ACEM comments on the Communication on an Energy Union.pdf [0.23 MB]

Note for editors. ACEM, the Motorcycle Industry in Europe, is the professional body representing the interests and combined skills of 14 manufacturers of L-category vehicles (mopeds, motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles) and 18 national associations. The sector accounts for 150,000 jobs across the European Union.

Press contact

For further information or to receive future ACEM news and press releases please contact Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua, ACEM communications officer on +32 (0)22 30 97 32 or by email at