Climate, Economy, Mobility
Kick-off autonomous road transport: Benelux advances the mobility of tomorrow
23 Feb. 2026
Today marked the launch of strengthened Benelux cooperation on autonomous road transport. During the kick-off, attended by Benelux Deputy Secretary-General Liesje Schreinemacher, representatives from Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg gathered to present existing initiatives and explore how Benelux cooperation can add value for cross‑border routes. The three countries are taking a step toward accelerating innovation in mobility, with attention to safety, sustainability and economic opportunities.
Enabling cross-border autonomous driving
Autonomous vehicles are already used on a limited scale in seaports. In the future, they will undoubtedly cross national borders, and therefore the Benelux countries — as a hub of the European logistics market — want to be prepared. Technology, traffic flows and regulation are becoming increasingly intertwined.
During the kick-off, the Benelux countries explored for the first time where opportunities lie for a joint, cross‑border approach, for example in the mutual recognition of vehicle approvals. Such an approach allows cross‑border test routes to be introduced more rapidly across the region.
Focus on autonomous road transport
The cooperation focuses on autonomous applications in road transport, initially specifically on freight transport by trucks. This should make transport more efficient, reduce congestion and potentially help address the growing shortage of drivers.
What does this deliver?
-Faster insights through joint testing that can serve as an example for the EU
-Better alignment of regulations within Benelux
-A strong foundation for smart, sustainable and future‑proof mobility
The kick-off showed that the same ambitions exist on both sides of the border and that these can only be achieved meaningfully through cross-border cooperation. The Dutch presidency of the Benelux in 2026 aims to promote joint growth and innovation within an open internal market. Advancing autonomous driving in cross‑border road transport is a strong example of this.
