The Dutch EV Revolution: How the Netherlands is preparing for an electric future

Mobility in the Netherlands is changing rapidly. By 2030, under the Dutch Climate Agreement, all new passenger cars sold must be zero-emission, marking the end of petrol and diesel vehicle sales.

While that may sound far away, 2030 is approaching faster than many expect. The country is working hard to prepare for this transition by expanding infrastructure, introducing new policies, and supporting drivers who want to make the switch.

For expats, this means entering a mobility landscape that is evolving faster than ever. Car companies are part of this transformation, making the Dutch EV revolution an exciting journey for newcomers. 

The scale of the challenge

The Netherlands has set ambitious goals for the future of electric driving. By 2030, the number of electric passenger vehicles on Dutch roads is expected to reach 1,9 million. The challenge lies not only in meeting this target but also in ensuring the infrastructure is ready to support such growth.

The country already ranks among the global leaders in EV adoption thanks to government incentives, progressive climate policies, and one of the world's most dense charging networks. 

As of April 2023, there were over 574.000 electric passenger cars on Dutch roads, supported by more than 124.000 semi-public charging points. These figures are climbing quickly, and without significant expansion, charging availability would struggle to keep pace with the growing number of vehicles. 

Building the charging grid

To meet the increasing demand, the Dutch government has created a National Charging Infrastructure Agenda. The aim is to provide both high coverage and accessibility, with a target of around 1,7 million charging points by 2030. This includes approximately 300.000 public chargers and additional semi-public and private stations.

Because 7 out of 10 Dutch households lack private driveways and rely on street parking or shared garages, public charging is essential. To address this, around 550 new charging points have been installed every day since 2025. In parking garages, the government is working toward having 10% of spaces equipped with chargers by the end of 2030. 

This large-scale project is sometimes referred to as the “charging grid”, a nationwide system designed to make charging as seamless as refuelling a traditional vehicle. Together with longer battery ranges in new EV models, the charging grid will significantly reduce range anxiety, one of the most common concerns for first-time EV drivers.

Join the Polestar revolution

Green zones and the future of urban mobility

The expansion of the charging network is only one part of the story. Another development that will reshape mobility is the introduction of green zones. These are areas, particularly in city centres, where petrol and diesel cars will be restricted or eventually banned.

For expats who are likely to live, work, and travel in cities such as Amsterdam, Utrecht, or Rotterdam, this will make driving a combustion engine vehicle increasingly impractical. Choosing an electric vehicle is therefore not just about sustainability but also about practicality and access.

Why 2026 marks a turning point

For expats considering their mobility options, 2026 represents an important turning point. Many of the transitional tax benefits that supported early EV adoption have now been phased out, and new regulations are beginning to take effect. This shift reflects how seriously the Netherlands is committing to its zero-emission targets.

As incentives evolve and urban access rules tighten, predictability becomes increasingly valuable. Leasing an electric vehicle offers a way to manage these changes with clarity, as costs are fixed and conditions are known in advance. Rather than navigating shifting taxes, depreciation, or resale uncertainty, drivers can focus on using a car that already meets future standards.

For expats settling into the Netherlands, leasing remains a flexible option in a system that continues to evolve. It allows access to modern electric vehicles without long-term ownership risk, while ensuring compliance with current and upcoming mobility regulations.

Embrace sustainable transport by leasing an electric vehicle

The Dutch EV revolution is accelerating, with ambitious adoption targets, a nationwide charging grid, and green zones reshaping urban mobility. For expats, this transformation offers both opportunities and clarity.

Leasing an electric vehicle in 2026 provides predictable costs, access to the latest technology, and a practical way to embrace sustainable transport in a country leading the way in zero-emission mobility.