EU Commissioners' electric car fleet hampered by charging stops on Brussels‑Strasbourg route

Around 80% of the European Commission’s 128 official vehicles are electric. On the 440 km journey between Brussels and Strasbourg, the cars cannot complete the trip on a single charge and must stop for 20–30 minutes at a charging station in Luxembourg. The extra stop extends travel time from five to up to seven hours, especially after late‑night plenary sessions.

Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is exempt because she travels in an armored vehicle, which is not electric. Other commissioners have voiced frustration, some suggesting slower driving to conserve energy or using a van instead of the official car. The issue has been raised in a Commissioners’ meeting, highlighting “range anxiety” even at the EU’s highest level and pointing to gaps in charging infrastructure. The Commission plans to present an updated electrification strategy in July, aiming for a fully zero‑emission fleet by 2027.