Approval granted by European Commission for business partnership between Yunex, Via Verde, and Ascendi
The European Commission has approved the formation of a joint venture named Triangle JV, involving Yunex of Germany and Portuguese companies Via Verde and Ascendi. This new entity will operate in the toll motorway concession sector, aiming to modernize toll collection technology and streamline operations in Europe.
One of Triangle JV's key projects includes supporting the implementation of a truck levy system across Dutch highways and certain regional motorways. The joint venture will provide on-board units to truck operators, record vehicle movements, and manage the collection and remittance of road usage charges to the Dutch Road Transport Agency.
Via Verde Portugal, a company involved in the joint venture, currently manages the Blankenburg route in the Netherlands. Ascendi, based in Portugal, specialises in road maintenance and intelligent transport system services.
Triangle JV's activities within the European Economic Area (EEA) are deemed negligible, and the companies involved have a limited combined market position. Following an assessment under the EU's simplified merger review procedure, the European Commission concluded that the transaction does not raise competition concerns. The decision was announced on 7 February 2025.
Industry analysts suggest that the joint venture could enhance interoperability between tolling systems across different European jurisdictions, potentially paving the way for a more unified approach to tolling in Europe.
The joint venture will also oversee customer service operations through a dedicated back office and contact centre, aiming to provide a seamless experience for users.
Meanwhile, the Road User Charging Conference series, hosted by Akabo Media, will feature discussions on key trends and challenges in the tolling, pricing, and road usage charging industries. This year, the conference series takes place in Brussels, Abu Dhabi, Miami, and Singapore in 2025.
At the Road User Charging Conference in Brussels, Paulo Santos, tolling director at Ascendi, will share insights on the implementation of the multi-lane free-flow tolling system model in France. Santos will discuss customer-centric tolling journeys, highlighting how free-flow technology enhances user experience by eliminating physical barriers and reducing congestion.
Several European countries are considering national road user charging schemes, reflecting a growing trend towards more sustainable and efficient transport solutions. The creation of Triangle JV is part of this broader movement, aiming to modernize and improve the efficiency of Europe's toll road infrastructure.
More information on the European Commission's decision regarding the joint venture can be found in case number M.11795 in the competition case register.
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