Buy a 16-seater bus: Reduce operating costs with 80% funding and DTE conversion.
Around 3,500 electric buses are already benefiting from an 80% subsidy – when will you electrify your fleet? In light of rising diesel prices and the final funding deadline on August 31, 2025, now is the crucial moment to set the course for a profitable future by purchasing or converting a 16-seater bus.
The topic briefly and concisely
Take advantage of the 80% funding for electric buses and DTE conversions before the deadline expires on August 31, 2025.
A diesel-to-electric (DTE) conversion conserves resources, secures existing vehicle structures, and is often more economical than purchasing a new one.
The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of electric buses is significantly lower than that of diesel vehicles due to lower energy and maintenance costs, as well as subsidies.
The decision to purchase a 16-seater bus is a strategic investment for municipalities and private transport companies. However, the pressure from high operating costs, strict climate regulations from the Clean Vehicles Directive, and volatile diesel prices is increasing. At the same time, the current funding program from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) offers a unique opportunity: 80% of the costs for the purchase or a diesel-to-electric conversion (DTE) are subsidized. The deadline for applications ends on August 31, 2025. This article presents a pragmatic 4-point plan on how to future-proof your fleet, significantly reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO), and benefit from maximum funding.
The pressure to act: Why you must act now
The time pressure for fleet operators is real and is determined by two sides: regulatory requirements and financial incentives. The EU Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD), implemented through the Clean Vehicles Procurement Act, has mandated minimum quotas for low-emission vehicles in public contracts since 2021. For buses, this quota is set at 45% during the first reference period until the end of 2025, with half of them needing to be completely emission-free. Starting in 2026, these requirements will further increase to 65%. At the same time, the most attractive funding for e-buses will expire on August 31, 2025. Those who do not act now risk not only higher operating costs but also miss out on a subsidy of 80% on the vehicle price. This combination of deadlines and regulations makes a quick yet informed decision essential. The next section outlines a clear plan for this.
Your 4-point action plan for timely electrification
A structured approach is essential to make use of the funding on time and to find the best solution for your fleet. With this checklist, you can navigate the process safely:
Conduct a needs analysis: Analyze the daily routes, passenger volumes, and specific requirements of your current 16-seater vehicles. How many kilometers do the vehicles travel daily? What topography do they have to tackle? This data serves as the basis for any further decisions.
Evaluate Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Consider not just the purchase price. The TCO includes all costs over the entire lifespan of a vehicle – from energy and maintenance to taxes and residual value. A modern electric bus often has the edge here after just a few years.
Check retrofit vs. new purchase: A diesel-to-electric (DTE) retrofit can be an extremely economical alternative. You get the proven chassis and can save up to 50% of the cost of a new vehicle, which strengthens the circular economy.
Apply for funding: Make sure that your project application for the 80% funding is submitted to the BMDV before August 31, 2025. A specialized partner can significantly expedite this process.
Especially the comparison between retrofit and new purchase offers tremendous savings potential.
Diesel-to-Electric (DTE): The smart alternative to purchasing new
Why replace a proven vehicle when you can upgrade it for the future? The Diesel-to-Electric (DTE) conversion is a central component of the circular economy and often the most pragmatic solution. In this process, the combustion engine is removed from your existing 16-seater bus and replaced with a highly efficient electric powertrain. The biggest advantage lies in preserving expensive special constructions and the familiar vehicle base. For example, a HEERO DTE-Sprinter achieves a range of up to 425 kilometers – more than enough for most daily operational scenarios. Additionally, maintenance costs decrease by up to 40%, as oil changes and exhaust system repairs are eliminated. With a DTE solution from Heero, you invest not only in sustainability but also in maximum cost-effectiveness. Learn about our customized conversion solutions. But how exactly do these advantages affect total costs?
Cost comparison: How the TCO directs the decision for e-buses
The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is the crucial metric for economical fleet planning. It shows that the higher acquisition costs of an e-bus are more than compensated by lower operating costs. Studies show that the TCO of an e-bus can be 5-10% lower over its lifetime than that of a diesel counterpart – and that is before considering subsidies. With the current 80% subsidy, the cost advantage becomes massive. Here are the main factors:
Energy Costs: Electricity is significantly cheaper and more stable in price per kilometer than diesel.
Maintenance: An electric motor has hardly any moving wear parts, which reduces maintenance costs by up to 40%.
Subsidy: The grant of 80% on the vehicle or conversion as well as 40% on charging infrastructure drastically lowers the initial investment.
Taxes & Fees: E-vehicles benefit from an exemption from vehicle tax valid until 2030.
These savings make the purchase of an electric 16-seater bus a superior investment. To realize these advantages, understanding the subsidy conditions is the next logical step.
Use funding pots optimally: secure 80% grants until August 2025
The “Guideline for the Promotion of Alternative Drives for Buses in Public Transport” of the BMDV is the most important instrument for fleet electrification. It covers 80% of the additional costs of an electric or fuel cell bus compared to a diesel bus. This applies to both the purchase of a new e-bus and a DTE conversion. Additionally, 40% of the costs for the establishment of the necessary charging infrastructure are subsidized. Since 2021, around 3,500 buses have already been subsidized under this program, leading to a CO₂ avoidance of 2.8 million tons. The crucial information for all fleet operators is the deadline: applications must be submitted by August 31, 2025. The grant is awarded in a competitive process, in which CO₂ efficiency plays a central role. A well-thought-out concept is therefore essential. The right vehicle technology is the basis for a successful funding application.
Heero Technology: Range and charging power for everyday practice
A 16-seater bus must function reliably in everyday life. HEERO therefore relies on proven technology based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, which makes no compromises in terms of performance and range. Our HEERO Tourer as a minibus offers a range of up to 400 kilometers with its 96 kWh net battery. At a DC fast charging station with up to 135 kW, the battery is recharged to 80% in about 30 minutes. For special requirements in scheduled services, our low-floor bus even offers up to 300 km range and a charging capacity of 165 kW. These performance figures guarantee maximum operational readiness and minimal downtime. All our vehicles are designed for the demanding conditions of passenger transport and offer the reliability you expect from HEERO. The first step to integrating this technology into your fleet is a non-binding analysis.
More useful links
The KfW provides comprehensive information on the promotion of electromobility for companies.
The Federal Environment Agency provides detailed information on the topic of electromobility.
The Fraunhofer ISI publishes a press release on the costs of electric trucks.
FAQ
How long does it take to convert a 16-seater bus to electric drive?
The pure conversion process at Heero is standardized and usually takes only a few weeks. Including planning, component procurement, and final approval, you should expect a period of approximately three to four months.
What charging infrastructure do I need for an electric 16-seater bus?
That depends on your operational concept. An AC wallbox is often sufficient for overnight charging. For quick recharging during short breaks, a DC fast-charging station (up to 165 kW for Heero models) is ideal. The installation of the charging infrastructure is funded at 40%.
What is the Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD)?
The Clean Vehicles Directive is an EU directive that requires public purchasers to meet minimum quotas for low- and zero-emission vehicles when acquiring vehicles. For buses, the quota is 45% until 2025 and rises to 65% thereafter.
What does Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) mean?
Total Cost of Ownership refers to the sum of all costs incurred by a vehicle over its entire lifetime. This includes acquisition, energy, maintenance, insurance, taxes, and residual value. For e-buses, the TCO is usually lower than for diesel buses, despite higher purchase costs.
What happens if I miss the funding deadline on August 31, 2025?
As of the current state, the funding program with the 80% subsidies expires on this date. Whether there will be a follow-up program with similarly attractive conditions is uncertain. A decision after this deadline most likely means a significantly higher own investment.
Do I retain the warranty on my base vehicle after a DTE conversion?
The manufacturer's warranty on the original drive train expires. However, Heero provides a comprehensive warranty on all installed electric components, including the battery and electric motor, ensuring your investment is fully protected.
