Bulgaria: Updated Toll Charges – CO₂ Levels Now Determine Costs for Heavy Vehicles

Starting in June, Bulgaria introduced a new toll pricing model for vehicles with a gross vehicle weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes. The system implements the provisions of the European Eurovignette Directive, which requires Member States to progressively link road infrastructure charges to the environmental impact of heavy-duty vehicles.

Vehicles are now classified into five environmental categories: Class 1 includes vehicles with the least favorable emissions performance, while Class 5 is reserved for those with the lowest carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions.

All trucks first registered before 1 July 2019 are automatically assigned to Class 1. In contrast, zero-emission vehicles, such as those powered exclusively by batteries or hydrogen fuel cells, are placed directly in Class 5 without the need for additional technical verification.

European legislation also allows Member States, until 30 June 2031, to grant substantial reductions or even complete exemptions from tolls and infrastructure charges for zero-emission heavy vehicles.

For internal combustion engine vehicles first registered on or after 1 July 2019, classification may fall within Classes 1 to 4. Any assignment to the more environmentally friendly categories will be subject to review after six years, in line with updates to the EU's CO₂ reduction targets, which will become progressively more stringent over time.

Toll charges are calculated based on several factors, including the vehicle’s CO₂ emissions class, vehicle category, applicable Euro emissions standard, and the type of infrastructure used. The tariff also incorporates components related to infrastructure costs, air pollution, noise impact, and greenhouse gas emissions.

To avoid being charged the highest toll rates, transport companies must register the vehicle’s technical data as listed in the official documentation within the system. Once registration is completed, operators can access an online tool that allows them both to identify the correct emissions class and to estimate the total cost of the planned route.