Certified e-conversion for Mercedes commercial vehicles: find providers and optimize TCO
Rising operating costs and impending diesel driving bans compel fleet managers to take action. A certified retrofit of your trusted Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles is the technologically and economically superior alternative to purchasing new ones. Discover how you can future-proof your fleet with the right strategy and the right provider.
The topic briefly and concisely
A certified retrofitting protects existing investments in expensive special equipment and is often more economical than a new purchase.
Choosing a provider specialized in Mercedes-Benz and compliant with TÜV regulations is crucial for safety and operational approval.
Reduced energy, maintenance, and control costs lower the total operating costs (TCO) of a converted vehicle by up to 30%.
For operators of Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle fleets, especially those with expensive special modifications, the transition to emission-free drives presents a huge challenge. Investments in the fleet are high, the vehicles are perfectly tailored to the purpose. Heero offers the pragmatic and most economical solution for this: instead of replacing your proven Sprinters, we upgrade them with our patented D2E technology (Diesel-to-Electric) to a powerful electric drive. This approach not only secures your investments but also sustainably reduces your total cost of ownership (TCO) and makes your fleet fit for the zero-emission zones of tomorrow.
Regulatory pressure: Why the electrification of commercial vehicles is inevitable
The legal framework conditions for commercial vehicle fleets in Germany and the EU are continuously tightening. The EU directive on clean vehicles (Clean Vehicles Directive) has required public procurers since 2021 to meet fixed quotas for zero-emission vehicles in new purchases. For municipalities, this means that in tenders a significant share, for example, 45% for light commercial vehicles, must be emission-free. At the same time, the rising CO2 price makes the operation of diesel vehicles noticeably more expensive each year, which directly affects operating costs. Many fleet managers underestimate the annual cost increase of over 5% solely due to CO2 charges. In addition, over 50 German cities are planning the introduction or tightening of environmental zones that will soon only allow access to zero-emission vehicles. This development makes a proactive electrification strategy, such as that made possible by a patented retrofit solution, no longer just an option but an economic necessity. The search for a qualified provider for a certified conversion of Mercedes commercial vehicles to electric becomes a strategic priority.
Provider selection: Criteria for a certified and secure e-conversion
The selection of the right partner for the electrification of your Mercedes-Benz fleet is crucial for success. Improper conversion entails significant safety risks and inevitably leads to the loss of operating permission. Certified providers guarantee compliance with all relevant standards and legal requirements. The TÜV association has established a clear basis for the technical inspection of converted vehicles with its information sheet 764, covering aspects such as electrical safety and the mounting of high-voltage components. A reputable provider transparently works according to these guidelines and provides all necessary assessments for the individual approval. When selecting a provider, pay attention to specialists who have focused on your vehicle model, such as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. This expertise ensures optimal integration and performance. A critical factor is also the experience with conversion solutions for special vehicles to maintain the functionality of expensive superstructures at 100%. The following points should be checked when selecting a provider:
Verifiable certifications and compliance with ECE-R100 and VdTÜV information sheet 764.
Specialization in Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles and particularly the Sprinter.
A transparent representation of the entire conversion process, including TÜV approval.
Warranty services on the new drive system and battery components.
Reference projects with comparable companies, e.g., from logistics or the municipal sector.
A comprehensive service offering that goes beyond mere conversion.
These criteria ensure that your investment is protected in the long term and that the converted vehicles reliably fulfill their tasks.
The HEERO D2E conversion: Technological leadership meets circular economy
HEERO has established itself as a technology leader in the certified conversion of Mercedes commercial vehicles to electric. Our patented D2E conversion (Diesel-to-Electric) is more than just an engine swap; it is a holistic concept based on the principles of the circular economy. Instead of prematurely writing off a fully functional vehicle with valuable special equipment, we preserve its value and transform it into a future-proof electric commercial vehicle. The conversion process in our plant takes only 10 working days. The heart is our electric drive train with a power output of up to 180 kW (245 HP) and torque of 1,100 Nm, which is in no way inferior to diesel. With our largest battery option, the vehicles achieve a practical range of up to 425 kilometers (WLTP), exceeding the requirements of most logistics and craft businesses. We retain the original Mercedes-Benz chassis and transmission, ensuring reliability and enabling drivers to acclimate immediately. This approach not only conserves valuable resources but also protects your original investment, which is essential, especially for vehicles with bodywork valued over €50,000. The continued use of proven components is a key aspect of our sustainable corporate philosophy.
TCO Analysis: How Retrofitting Significantly Reduces Total Operating Costs
The decision to convert is primarily an economic one. A detailed analysis of the total cost of ownership (Total Cost of Ownership, TCO) shows the enormous savings potential. While the initial costs of the conversion represent an investment, this often pays off within just 4 to 5 years. The savings result from several factors. The energy costs per 100 kilometers for an electric transporter are around €8, compared to over €15 for a diesel vehicle. Maintenance costs are reduced by up to 50% as maintenance-intensive components such as exhaust systems, oil changes, or clutches are eliminated. Additionally, there are significant tax advantages, such as the 10-year exemption from vehicle tax in Germany. For a fleet operator with 20 vehicles, the savings over a usage period of 8 years can sum up to over €250,000. Government funding programs like KsNI can additionally reduce the initial investment by up to 80% of the additional costs, further shortening the amortization period. With our TCO calculator, you can accurately determine your individual savings potential. Thus, the conversion is the fastest way to an economically and ecologically optimized fleet.
The conversion process: 5 steps to the certified E-Sprinter
Our conversion process is standardized and designed for maximum efficiency and safety to get your vehicles back on the road quickly. It follows a clear, transparent procedure:
Consultation and Configuration: In the first step, we analyze your driving profile and the intended use to determine the optimal battery size and configuration for your needs.
Vehicle Delivery and Dismantling: You deliver your Mercedes-Benz Sprinter base vehicle. Our team professionally removes the entire diesel drivetrain and all associated components.
Installation of the Electric Drive: We install the pre-assembled HEERO electric drivetrain, the high-voltage battery in a crash-proof housing, and the entire control electronics.
Integration and Software Calibration: The new system is fully integrated into the existing vehicle electronics. The software is calibrated to ensure perfect coordination of power, recuperation, and range display.
Certification and Handover: Every retrofitted vehicle undergoes strict quality control and receives individual approval from a recognized testing organization such as the TÜV. You receive a fully certified electric commercial vehicle with all documents.
This efficient process, also successfully applied to customers like Würth, guarantees the highest quality and safety.
Conclusion: Your advantage with HEERO as a partner for the e-conversion
The search for a provider for a certified conversion of Mercedes commercial vehicles to electric leads to a clear insight: it's about more than just replacing an engine. It's about a holistic, economical, and sustainable approach. Heero offers you a technologically mature and proven solution that protects your investments, reduces your operating costs by up to 30%, and prepares your fleet for an emissions-free future. Our D2E conversion combines the proven quality of a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with the efficiency and performance of a modern electric drive. We are not just a converter, but your strategic partner for the decarbonization of your fleet. Take advantage of the opportunity to intelligently combine economy and ecology. Experience the benefits for yourself and become part of the movement that relies on circular economy and technological innovation. Request your personal consultation now or book a free trial test to experience the performance of our vehicles live. We look forward to shaping the future of your fleet with you. Get in contact today.
More useful links
Wikipedia provides general information about electromobility.
The National Control Center for Charging Infrastructure offers comprehensive information on the topic of commercial vehicles.
Statista provides statistics on the development of truck prices by drive type.
The Federal Ministry of Transport informs about commercial vehicles with alternative drives.
The BALM (Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility) provides information on the funding program for climate-friendly commercial vehicles and infrastructure (KSNI).
The Funding Database of the BMWi informs about the funding of e-commercial vehicle applications and infrastructures.
The Bundestag publishes a brief report on the topic.
The Fraunhofer ISI provides a press release on declining costs for emission-free trucks.
Strategy&/PwC has published a press release on the electrification of trucks.
The ICCT provides a factsheet on the total cost of ownership (TCO) of battery electric trucks in Europe.
FAQ
Is it legal and safe to convert to an electric drive?
Yes, absolutely. A professional conversion by a certified provider like Heero is carried out according to strict legal requirements (e.g., VdTÜV-Merkblatt 764). Each vehicle receives an individual approval by a recognized testing organization (e.g., TÜV) after the conversion, which confirms the unrestricted roadworthiness and legality.
What guarantees are there for the conversion?
Heero offers comprehensive warranty services for the new electric powertrain and high-voltage battery, which are comparable to the warranties offered by new vehicle manufacturers. This protects your investment in the long term.
What happens to the diesel engine that is removed?
In the spirit of the circular economy, the removed engines and components are professionally refurbished and supplied to the spare parts market. This conserves resources and avoids waste.
What funding options are there for the conversion?
Companies can use funding programs like 'Climate-Friendly Commercial Vehicles and Infrastructure' (KsNI) from the federal government for converting commercial vehicles. These can cover up to 80% of the additional costs compared to a diesel vehicle. We are happy to advise you on the current options.
Do I need to set up special infrastructure for charging?
Our converted vehicles can be charged at all common AC and DC charging points (Type 2 and CCS). We analyze your needs and advise you on planning and implementing the appropriate charging infrastructure for your depot to ensure maximum efficiency.
For which Mercedes models do you offer a conversion?
Our focus is on electrifying the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (series 906 and 907), as it is the most widespread base for special and custom bodies in the commercial vehicle sector. For other models, you are welcome to make an individual inquiry.
