The Netherlands has become a key player in Europe’s automotive and mobility landscape, combining logistics excellence, electrification innovation, and a business-friendly environment. For supply chain and customs leaders, the Dutch formula offers a compelling blueprint for expansion: unmatched access to the European market, cutting-edge infrastructure (from ports to EV chargers), and forward-thinking policies that enable growth while maintaining compliance. Below, we explore why the Netherlands is spearheading automotive expansion and what this means for the future of mobility in Europe.
A Strategic Gateway to Europe
Holland isn’t called “the Gateway to Europe” for nothing. The Netherlands offers unparalleled access to the EU’s 450 million consumers. The Port of Rotterdam, the continent’s busiest seaport, handles automotive parts and vehicles from all corners of the globe. On the Logistics Performance Index, the Netherlands consistently ranks among the top, reflecting world-class customs efficiency and infrastructure. For automotive firms, this means importing components or distributing finished vehicles via the Netherlands is fast and reliable. The country’s central location also ensures 24-hour delivery to most major European markets by road. Whether shipping electric vehicles or heavy machinery, the Dutch logistics ecosystem offers a seamless springboard into Europe.
Investing in Future-Proof Infrastructure
The Netherlands has bet big on future mobility, and it shows. Despite its modest size, the Netherlands has made bold investments in future mobility. As of 2025, there are over 180,000 public charge points nationwide, equating to 10 chargers per 1,000 inhabitants – the highest density in the EU.
High-power charging stations line every major highway, making the Netherlands a natural home for EV fleets and a testing ground for new electric trucks and vans. Cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam are investing in smart traffic systems and zero-emission zones, ensuring infrastructure isn’t just ample but also intelligent. This forward-looking approach means logistics operators can confidently electrify last-mile delivery and charging providers find a receptive market. In parallel, the Dutch hunger for mobility tech extends to e-bikes and e-scooters: with more bicycles than people, the Netherlands has embraced electrified two-wheelers for urban transport. For mobility companies, this creates fertile ground to introduce innovative micro-mobility solutions (from connected e-bikes to scooter-sharing) in a market that eagerly adopts them.
Business-Friendly Tax & Customs Climate
Another reason the Netherlands leads in automotive expansion is its pro-business policy framework, particularly in tax and customs. The country offers attractive conditions for foreign investors – not least a stable tax regime with incentives for innovation and sustainability. For example, companies establishing distribution hubs in Holland can benefit from the “Article 23” import VAT deferment scheme, which allows import VAT to be postponed and settled via VAT returns. This is a huge cash-flow advantage for automotive importers bringing in vehicles or parts from overseas.
Additionally, the Netherlands has streamlined customs procedures and widespread use of Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status, reducing red tape for trusted logistics operators. Compliance in the Dutch system is both rigorous and facilitative: authorities leverage advanced digital systems to speed up clearance, and there’s a robust network of customs brokers and advisors (backed by bodies like the Holland International Distribution Council) to guide companies. On the taxation front, the government has historically incentivized green mobility – from zero road tax for EVs to generous depreciation schemes for clean-tech investments; by combining logistics strength with financial sense, the Netherlands removes many barriers that otherwise complicate automotive expansions.
Electrification and New Mobility Trends
Electrification is at the heart of the Netherlands’ mobility story. The country is second only to Norway in EV market penetration in Europe – in 2024, about 35% of new cars sold were battery electric. Such rapid adoption didn’t happen by accident: Dutch consumers and companies are motivated by environmental consciousness, but also by user experience. Reliable charging, lower running costs, and incentives all helped EVs become an attractive choice.
Moreover, the Dutch have proven keen on alternative mobility: the explosion of e-bike usage has extended commuting ranges, and cities are cautiously integrating e-scooters to complement public transit. For logistics and supply chain leaders, these trends carry implications. Urban delivery is shifting to electric vans and cargo e-bikes to meet city emissions rules – a transition well underway in Amsterdam, for example, where quiet, green delivery vehicles are increasingly common. Customer focus areas in this new mobility ecosystem include sustainability (carbon footprint reduction), convenience (fast charging and ample spare parts availability), and connectivity (digital services tied to vehicles).
Long-Term Mobility Outlook in Europe
Looking ahead, the Dutch model provides a glimpse of Europe’s mobility future. By 2030 and beyond, the continent is expected to feature a transport system that is predominantly electric, highly connected, and intermodal - and the Netherlands is on the forefront of each of these fronts. The EU’s plan to end sales of new combustion cars by 2035 aligns with the Dutch Climate Agreement goals for all new cars to be zero-emission by that year.
Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) is also gaining traction. Dutch cities are experimenting with integrated apps that let users mix train, EV car-share, and e-scooter rentals in one journey. For logistics leaders, the long-term trajectory means planning for green supply chains, with hubs like Rotterdam offering hydrogen and electric recharging for trucks and ensuring compliance with evolving regulations.
Partnering for Mobility Success
The Netherlands’ leadership in automotive expansion comes from a unique combination of strengths – strategic location, future-ready infrastructure, supportive policies, and a culture of innovation. For logistics, supply chain, and customs professionals, the Dutch example underscores how investing in connectivity and sustainability pays off. As the gateway to Europe, the Netherlands is not only moving today’s goods and vehicles efficiently; it’s also paving the road for tomorrow’s mobility revolution. Whether you’re entering the European market or scaling operations, Holland’s approach could be your key to driving forward successfully.
Expeditors is here to help you navigate Europe’s evolving mobility landscape with confidence. Connect with our team to explore tailored solutions for your automotive strategy. Then, join us on October 30 for our Netherlands Automotive & Mobility Webinar to hear directly from subject-matter experts. Register for the webinar here!