Car brand E: How to secure 80% funding for your fleet before the deadline in 2025
Secure up to 425 km of range after a diesel-to-electric upgrade and receive 80% of the costs funded? The time for electrifying your commercial vehicle fleet is now. We will show you how to set the course correctly before the deadline on August 31, 2025.
The topic briefly and concisely
The current funding round for electric commercial vehicles with an 80% subsidy ends on August 31, 2025, which requires swift action.
The Clean Vehicles Directive legally obliges public buyers and their service providers to procure zero-emission vehicles.
The conversion from diesel to electric (DTE) conserves resources, secures existing vehicle structures, and is often more economical than buying a new one.
Rising diesel prices, strict climate regulations, and the bureaucracy of funding applications present fleet managers with enormous challenges. Many hesitate when choosing the right car brand for their electric vehicles, as the investment is high and practicality is crucial. This article is your solution-oriented plan: We will guide you through the legal requirements such as the Clean Vehicles Directive, explain the attractive funding conditions from the government, and present you with a clear 4-point plan for the economic and sustainable modernization of your fleet. Learn how, with the right strategy – whether it be retrofitting or new vehicles – you can not only save costs but also secure the future viability of your company.
Deadline August 31, 2025: Why there is now pressure to act for fleets
The crucial deadline for the electrification of your fleet ends on August 31, 2025. By this date, applications for the current funding round must be submitted. The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) supports the transition with an impressive rate of 80 percent of the additional investment expenses for the purchase or retrofitting of vehicles. Additionally, the establishment of the necessary charging infrastructure is subsidized by 40 percent. This generous funding significantly reduces the initially high costs and accelerates amortization. The time window for this one-time funding rate is closing, requiring quick and pragmatic action. The high demand in previous funding calls shows that many companies are already taking advantage of this opportunity. Those who do not act now risk missing this financial support and will have to manage the transition later with significantly higher own funds. The next section highlights the legal drivers that make the transition additionally unavoidable.
Legal Framework: The Clean Vehicles Directive as a Wake-Up Call
In addition to the funding period, legislation is also increasing the pressure on public and many private fleet operators. The EU Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD), implemented in Germany through the Clean Vehicles Procurement Act (SaubFahrzeugBeschG), mandates binding minimum quotas for the procurement of low-emission vehicles. In the first reference period until the end of 2025, for example, 38.5 percent of new light commercial vehicles must be 'clean.' For buses under public contracts, the quota is even 45 percent, of which half must be completely emission-free. This regulation not only affects municipalities directly but also their service providers in the context of public contracts. A violation of these quotas can have not only legal but also reputational consequences. The transition to emission-free vehicles is therefore no longer an option but a strategic necessity. The following action plan shows how you can approach this transformation in a structured manner.
Your 4-point action plan for subsidized fleet electrification
A structured approach is the key to securing funding on time and making the right technology choice. Follow this checklist in four steps:1. Conduct needs analysis: Record the daily mileage and downtimes of your current diesel fleet. This creates the data basis for selecting the appropriate battery capacity and range, such as the up to 500 km of the HEERO eTransporter.2. Compare total costs (TCO): Don't just consider the purchase price. A Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis takes into account lower energy, maintenance, and tax costs and shows that e-vehicles are often cheaper over their lifetime than diesel. 3. Make a technology decision: Check whether a Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE) or a new vehicle makes more sense for you. Existing special structures can be retained through innovative conversion solutions, saving significant costs and supporting the principles of the circular economy.4. Apply for funding: Compile all documents for the funding application. Note the deadline of August 31, 2025 and take advantage of the 80 percent funding for vehicles and DTE conversions as well as 40 percent for the charging infrastructure. A specialized partner can be crucial here.With this plan, you are well prepared. But how exactly does profitability reflect in the numbers?
Cost-effectiveness in Focus: The TCO Advantage of Electric Commercial Vehicles
The higher purchase costs for electric vehicles are often perceived as a hurdle. However, considering the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) paints a different picture. Studies show that electric trucks are already cheaper over their lifetime than comparable diesel models today or in the near future. Operating costs are significantly lower: electricity is cheaper per kilometer than diesel, and electric drives have fewer wear parts, reducing maintenance costs by up to 50 percent. The vehicle tax is waived for electric vehicles until at least 2030. The BMDV subsidy of 80 percent on additional investment costs almost completely eliminates the initial price disadvantage. Thus, the transition is not a burden, but an economically wise investment. The choice of the right vehicle technology is the next critical factor.
Technology that convinces: Range and charging performance for everyday work.
The practicality determines the success of electrification. HEERO vehicles are designed for demanding commercial use. Here are the facts about range and charging performance: HEERO eTransporter: Up to 500 km range for long tours. HEERO DTE-Sprinter: Up to 425 km after conversion, ideal for existing fleets. HEERO ePlatform truck: Up to 400 km, perfect for craftsmen and municipalities. HEERO low-floor buses: Up to 300 km, sufficient for most urban lines. HEERO Tourer (9-seater): Up to 400 km for passenger transport. All models (except the medium low-floor bus) use a 110 kWh gross battery (96 kWh net) and charge with up to 135 kW. The medium low-floor bus offers even more capacity with 137 kWh (115 kWh net) and up to 165 kW charging power. A charge to 80 percent is thus possible in around 30 to 40 minutes. These performance data make the switch to electric sprinters and other models a reliable solution. But it's not just about new technology, it's also about a new, more sustainable approach.
More than just electric: Circular economy through retrofitting
Why scrap a tried-and-tested vehicle when only the drive is outdated? The diesel-to-electric conversion (DTE) is a prime example of implemented circular economy. Instead of producing a completely new vehicle, the lifecycle of an existing Mercedes commercial vehicle is extended. This not only saves up to 60 percent of the CO₂ emissions that occur during the production of a new vehicle but also conserves valuable resources. Especially with expensive special superstructures, as is common in municipalities or trades, the conversion is the economically and ecologically superior solution. Your tried-and-tested vehicle receives a second, emission-free life – with full performance and state-of-the-art technology. This approach combines economic sensibility with ecological responsibility. Start your personal funding analysis now to explore this option for your fleet. Start your funding analysis: Answer three questions, receive your grant roadmap, and take advantage of the 80% funding. For free analysis free · non-binding · timely
More useful links
The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transportation (BMDV) provides the official funding guidelines for charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
The KfW informs about various funding opportunities for companies in the field of sustainable mobility.
The Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) offers detailed information on the funding program for climate protection and sustainability in transportation (KSNI).
The Federal Environment Agency provides comprehensive information on the topic of climate protection in the transportation sector.
The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action provides a dossier on the topic of electromobility.
FAQ
What ranges do HEERO e-commercial vehicles have?
The ranges are optimized for specific applications: The eTransporter covers up to 500 km, the retrofitted DTE-Sprinter up to 425 km, the ePlatform Truck up to 400 km, and the eBuses up to 300 km. These values cover most daily usage profiles in the commercial sector.
How long does it take to charge a HEERO eTransporter?
At a DC fast-charging station with up to 135 kW charging power, the battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in about 30 to 40 minutes. This allows for efficient use even with high daily mileage requirements.
Is my existing Mercedes Sprinter convertible?
Yes, HEERO specializes in diesel-to-electric conversion (DTE) of Mercedes-Benz Sprinters. This allows you to keep your proven vehicle with its specific configuration and future-proof it by switching to an emission-free drive system.
What happens if I miss the funding deadline on August 31, 2025?
If you miss the deadline, you can no longer apply for the current funding period. Future funding programs are possible, but their conditions (e.g., the funding level of 80%) are uncertain and may be less advantageous.
Who is affected by the Clean Vehicles Directive?
The directive affects all public contracting authorities (federal, state, municipalities) as well as sector contracting entities (e.g., in the areas of energy, transport, water). It also impacts private companies performing public service contracts, such as in public transport or waste management.
What is the difference between gross and net battery capacity?
The gross capacity is the total physically installed energy amount of the battery. The net capacity is the actually usable portion. A buffer between gross and net protects the battery, slows aging, and ensures a long lifespan, which is why HEERO transparently indicates both values (e.g., 110 kWh gross / 96 kWh net).
