The European Investment Bank (EIB) and sustainable mobility provider Ayvens have signed a €700 million financing agreement to deploy 19,000 electric light commercial vehicles (eLCVs) across Europe.
The fleet will primarily serve Germany, France, Italy, and the Netherlands over the next three years.
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The deal includes a €350 million credit facility from the EIB on favourable terms, matched by an equivalent co-investment from Ayvens. The funding aims to support businesses transitioning to electric fleets as low-emission zones (LEZs) expand across European cities.
LEZs are now a key component of urban vehicle access regulations to improve air quality and are central to the EU’s climate-neutral and smart cities agenda. With LEZ adoption expected to grow significantly by 2030, demand for electric LCVs is rising. However, fleet electrification remains challenging due to barriers such as vehicle availability, affordability, charging infrastructure, and grid capacity.
Ayvens Deputy CEO and CFO Patrick Sommelet said the investment would enhance fleet accessibility at competitive prices, helping businesses navigate market complexity. “LCVs are essential work tools, and they must remain fit for purpose regardless of the powertrain,” he added.
EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle highlighted the bank’s role in supporting fleet decarbonisation. “We are proud to help develop the supply of electric vehicles to SMEs, which are among Ayvens’ most important customers,” he said.
The funding agreement reinforces Ayvens’ commitment to sustainability and fleet electrification while addressing key financial and logistical hurdles in the transition to zero-emission commercial transport.
