POLIS Policy Dialogue on Bus Fleet Transformation in Europe
On 26-27 October 2026, POLIS will bring together local and regional authorities, transport authorities, industry representatives, and EU-level stakeholders for a two-day policy dialogue on the transformation of Europe's bus fleets.
The decarbonisation of road transport is a key priority for the European Union, with public transport playing an important role in delivering cleaner and more sustainable mobility. Cities and regions are already working to transform their bus fleets, but the transition presents significant challenges, from technology choices and procurement to infrastructure, funding, and industrial capacity.
EU legislation, including the Clean Vehicles Directive and CO₂ emission standards for heavy-duty vehicles, is creating a clear policy framework and timeline for the transition. At the same time, public transport authorities and operators need to maintain and expand services while managing major investments in vehicles, depots, charging infrastructure, energy systems, and skills.
The POLIS Policy Dialogue on Bus Fleet Transformation in Europe, taking place in Brussels on 26 and 27 October 2026, will provide a space for POLIS members and relevant EU-level stakeholders to exchange perspectives on these challenges and explore opportunities for closer cooperation.
The dialogue will focus on five key areas:
- Energy: What role will different energy and propulsion technologies play in the transition, and how should cities and regions plan their fleet strategies in light of evolving EU policy and market developments?
- Procurement: How can public procurement support fleet decarbonisation while enabling innovation, investment and a competitive European bus manufacturing sector?
- Industrial capacity: How can European manufacturers increase production capacity, reduce delivery times and respond to the growing demand for zero-emission buses?
- Funding: How can EU and national funding better support the interconnected investments required for fleet transformation, and what can be expected from the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework?
- System planning: How can public authorities, transport operators and electricity network operators work more closely together to address grid capacity, permitting, infrastructure deployment and long-term energy planning?
Each topic will be addressed in a dedicated session, bringing together POLIS members and EU-level stakeholders with relevant expertise. The sessions will aim to foster an open and constructive exchange of perspectives, with a focus on practical challenges, policy developments and opportunities for cooperation.
The dialogue will take place at the POLIS office in Brussels and will be moderated by the POLIS Secretariat. To encourage an open exchange, Chatham House Rules will apply.
Please note: Participation is limited to invited guests and POLIS members. Should you wish to express your interest in attending, please contact Pedro Homem de Gouveia (pgouveia@polisnetwork.eu) and Pedro Gomes, Clean Vehicles & Air Quality Cluster Lead (pgomes@polisnetwork.eu).
