What subsidies are there in the Netherlands for electric cargo bikes?

Several subsidies are available in the Netherlands that make the purchase of electric cargo bikes significantly more affordable for entrepreneurs. These schemes are available at the national level through the SEBA (Subsidy Scheme for Emission-Free Company Cars and Machines) and at the municipal level where cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht offer additional incentives. In addition, entrepreneurs can take advantage of tax incentives such as the MIA, KIA and VAMIL. These subsidies make the switch to sustainable mobility more financially attractive and contribute to cleaner and more efficient urban distribution.

1. Subsidies for electric cargo bikes: an overview
2. What national subsidies are there for electric cargo bikes?
3. How do municipal subsidies for e-bikes work?
4. What are the tax advantages when buying an electric cargo bike?
5. How do you apply for a grant for an electric cargo bike?
6. Smart investment in sustainable urban mobility

The Dutch government is actively promoting the use of electric cargo bikes as a sustainable mobility solution in urban areas. This encouragement is no accident - electric cargo bikes offer efficient alternative to polluting company cars.

"Grants make the difference between hesitating and doing," says Joeri of STOER Bikes. "Our CargoX normally costs €5,000, but with subsidies you sometimes pay only €3,000. Then suddenly investing becomes very interesting for entrepreneurs."

They reduce CO2 emissions, improve air quality and help reduce traffic congestion.

Various subsidy schemes: Government has therefore created several subsidy schemes. These lower the financial threshold for purchasing an electric cargo bike. Schemes range from direct purchase subsidies to tax benefits. Available at both national and local level.

For entrepreneurs investing in sustainable urban mobility, it is important to know what subsidies are available. How to make the best use of them.

Cost savings: Electric cargo bikes cost on average between €4,350 and €5,300. With proper subsidies, this amount can be considerably lower.

Want to know more about our cargo bike? Then read our blog "What is the difference between a regular electric bike and an electric fatbike for business use?“

At the national level, the main subsidy scheme for electric cargo bikes is the SEBA. Zero Emission Company Cars and Machines Subsidy Scheme. This scheme is specifically designed for entrepreneurs.

"SEBA is really great for our customers," says Joeri. "Up to €2,500 per cargo bike, which is almost half of a CargoX. No wonder more and more companies are switching."

Provides financial support for purchase of zero-emission vehicles, including electric cargo bikes.

SEBA scheme benefits: Through SEBA scheme, up to 40% of purchase value can be subsidized. With a maximum of €2,500 per electric cargo bike. This makes investment in high-quality electric cargo bikes considerably more attractive. Scheme is opened annually and often has a limited budget.

Periodic incentive schemes: In addition to SEBA, there are periodic incentive schemes. Offered by Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management. Often aimed at specific sectors such as logistics or delivery services. Can offer additional financial benefits.

For freelancers and small businesses: Opportunity to take advantage of KIA (Small Scale Investment Allowance). Which provides additional tax benefit for investments in business assets such as electric cargo bike.

Want to know more about KIA? Then read our blog "KIA fatbike: 28% investment return for businesses“

In addition to national subsidy schemes, many Dutch municipalities offer additional subsidies. For purchase of electric cargo bikes. These local schemes are often specifically aimed at improving livability and air quality.

"Local subsidies can really add up," says Joeri. "A customer in Amsterdam received €2,000 municipal subsidy on top of national benefits. Then his investment in a cargo bike suddenly becomes very advantageous."

Amsterdam Clean Air: In Amsterdam, you can receive up to €2,000 in subsidies as an entrepreneur. For the purchase of an electric cargo bike through the Clean Air for Amsterdam scheme.

Rotterdam and Utrecht: Rotterdam offers through "Electric Vehicle Subsidy Scheme" up to €1,500. Utrecht has similar scheme where entrepreneurs can receive subsidies of up to €1,800. For electric cargo bike used for city distribution or business purposes.

Smaller municipalities: Smaller municipalities such as Nijmegen, Groningen and Eindhoven also have similar arrangements.

Advantage combining: A major advantage of municipal subsidies is that they can often be combined with national schemes. This can significantly increase the total subsidy contribution. However, it is important to know that conditions, subsidy amounts and application procedures differ from one municipality to another.

Municipal grants are often provided on a first-come, first-served basis. It is advisable to keep a close eye on the municipal subsidy calendar. Apply in time.

Want to know more about local arrangements? Then read our blog "Fatbike law changes 2025: what do you need to know?“

In addition to direct subsidies, there are several tax schemes. Which make buying electric cargo bike more attractive for entrepreneurs.

"Tax breaks are often forgotten," says Joeri. "But MIA and KIA together can return as much as 40% of your investment. That makes our models very interesting."

Environmental Investment Allowance (MIA): One of most important tax advantages. MIA allows entrepreneurs to deduct up to 36% of investment amount from taxable profit. On top of regular investment deduction.

Small business investment allowance (KIA): Provides additional deduction for small investments. Depending on investment amount, this can be up to 28% of purchase value. Especially beneficial for ZZP'ers and small businesses.

VAMIL scheme: Third tax benefit is VAMIL scheme (Arbitrary depreciation of environmental investments). This allows entrepreneurs to freely depreciate up to 75% of investment. This gives more flexibility in depreciation. Can lead to liquidity and interest advantage.

Conditions Environmental List: To qualify, electric cargo bikes must be on the Environmental List. This list is published annually by Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland (RVO). Most modern electric cargo bikes for business use are on this list.

Combining tax benefits with direct subsidies can significantly reduce net investment. Makes wise choice for business owners seeking sustainable transportation solutions.

Want to know more about tax breaks? Then read our blog "E-fatbike VS E-bike, what are the differences?“

Applying for electric cargo bike subsidy is through different channels. Depending on specific scheme. For national subsidy schemes such as SEBA you apply to RVO.

"Applying is actually very simple," Joeri explains. "Especially important to be on time. Many customers wait too long and then budget runs out."

Through their digital application portal.

Required documents national grant:

• Offer or purchase agreement of electric cargo bike
• Extract from Chamber of Commerce (not older than 6 months)
• VAT number
• Technical specifications of electric cargo bike

Municipal grants: For municipal grants, application is usually made through digital counter in the relevant municipality. Required documents are similar to national regulations. Some municipalities may have additional requirements. Such as statement on intended use of cargo bike.

Tax benefits: For tax benefits such as MIA and VAMIL, you must report to RVO within three months of purchase. You can then claim benefits in tax returns for the relevant year.

Important Tip: Be sure to apply for a subsidy before your electric cargo bike final purchase. With many schemes, subsidy application is no longer possible after purchase. Also keep in mind application periods. Many subsidy pots open early in the calendar year and can be quickly exhausted.

Want to know more about procedures? Then read our blog "8 Main differences between entry-level and premium fatbikes“