Montenegro is preparing a new law that would require public institutions, state-owned companies and government bodies to purchase electric and hybrid vehicles starting next year, as part of efforts to reduce air pollution and modernize the country’s public vehicle fleet.
The measure was announced during a session of the Green Parliamentary Group, where officials discussed Montenegro’s transport development strategy, its impact on economic growth and the need for greater environmental sustainability.
Nikola Veljović from the Ministry of Transport said the planned legislation would introduce binding rules for the public sector. Under the proposal, public institutions and state administrations would be required to purchase hybrid or electric vehicles, while also facing limits related to budget, engine power and other vehicle specifications.
The initiative comes amid growing concern over emissions from aging vehicles. Independent MP Radinka Činćur said Podgorica has twice as many vehicles per capita as London, while the average age of vehicles in Montenegro is around 17 years. Most of them run on diesel or gasoline.
Lawmakers also stressed that adopting the law will not be enough unless it is properly enforced. MP Boris Mugoša said state and local institutions should lead by example and avoid excessive spending on expensive official cars.
The discussion also touched on broader transport investments. Montenegro recently signed a €250 million agreement with the European Investment Bank, with €175 million expected to go toward railway projects, including the reconstruction of the Bar–Golubovci railway section and work on the Sozina tunnel.
Officials from the Eco Fund said Montenegro already has subsidy programs for electric vehicle purchases, but added that additional regulations are needed to secure more funding for environmental projects.
