The progressive end of 2G in Europe: a major turning point for electronic toll tag for heavy goods vehicles
For several years now, European telecom operators have been engaged in a major shift: the progressive shutdown of 2G mobile networks in favor of more modern technologies such as 4G and 5G. Considered robust and sufficient for many industrial uses, 2G is now reaching the end of its life across much of Europe.
This change has real consequences for the road freight transport sector, particularly for the electronic toll collection systems used daily by European fleets (both light and heavy vehicles).
Why does the end of 2G directly impact electronic toll collection?
Many electronic toll devices currently in circulation still rely on 2G for:
- Communication with operator platforms,
- Remote software updates,
- Vehicle data management,
- Technical diagnostics,
- Activation of value-added services
With the progressive end of 2G, these functions will become partially or totally unavailable, even if toll payment itself can continue to function temporarily via other technologies such as DSRC. Thus, a OBU can still “pass” through the toll booth, but without control, updates, or visibility for the operator.
France and Switzerland: two concrete examples of change already in progress
Switzerland: targeted deactivation before total shutdown
Switzerland has confirmed that it will completely shut down its 2G network by June 2026. Electronic toll collection devices (OBUs) operating on 2G will be permanently deactivated from this date and will no longer be able to operate on the Swiss network.
France: continuity of payment, but significantly degraded services
In France, 2G is expected to end completely by December 31, 2026, at the latest. This change will have a direct impact on electronic toll tags that still rely on this technology, particularly for all connected functions. The main consequences identified are:
- The inability to update devices remotely from French territory
- The absence of technical diagnostics while the vehicle is in France
- The failure of OTA updates (license plate changes, vehicle data, OBU operations)
- The unavailability of connected value-added services
- The absence of event reporting to monitoring tools
The Negoroad electronic toll collection service: prepare for the end of 2G with peace of mind
France and Switzerland are not isolated cases. Many European countries have already announced or begun phasing out 2G, forcing electronic toll operators to upgrade their equipment. At Negometal, we have been supporting European transport companies in the management of their cross-border operations (tax recovery and European mobility) since 1984.
Faced with the planned end of 2G, we have chosen to offer a reliable, scalable, and forward-looking solution: the “Negoroad” offers operating on the 4G network.
This means you enjoy:
- 4G-compatible devices, ready for the new requirements of European networks
- Solid international coverage with 18 European networks covered in 16 countries, with the addition of the Netherlands network in the second quarter of 2026
- Continuous access to connected services essential for modern vehicle management
- A smooth transition with no operational disruption
Anticipating this transition means avoiding service interruptions, toll booth delays and loss of operational visibility. With Negoroad, you can approach this technological shift to 4G with confidence.
