Bus Electric Solutions: Secure 80% funding before the 2025 deadline
Over 3,500 e-buses are already benefiting from an 80% subsidy – when will you electrify your fleet? Time is of the essence, as the current funding round ends on 31st August 2025. We will show you how to successfully implement pragmatic bus-electrification solutions.
The topic briefly and concisely
The current funding round for electric buses and charging infrastructure ends on 31 August 2025 and offers up to 80% subsidy on the additional investment costs.
Converting existing diesel buses (Diesel-to-Electric) is an eligible and sustainable alternative to purchasing new ones, which strengthens the circular economy.
An analysis of the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) shows that electric buses are more economical in the long term than diesel vehicles due to lower energy and maintenance costs.
Rising diesel prices, stringent climate requirements imposed by the Clean Vehicles Directive, and significant bureaucratic effort present fleet operators with enormous challenges. Many hesitate to switch to electric drives, yet the deadline for attractive subsidies expires on 31st August 2025. It's time for pragmatic electric bus solutions. Whether through a Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE), which retains your trusted vehicles, or by purchasing highly efficient new buses – the switch is economically and ecologically sensible. This guide leads you through the crucial steps to electrify your fleet promptly and cost-effectively.
Your Opportunity 2025: Key Facts on E-Bus Funding
The electrification of your bus fleet is not a question of 'if', but 'when'. The current funding round from the Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV) offers a unique opportunity to set the course. Over 3,500 electric buses have already been approved since 2021, highlighting the market's dynamics. Here are the key figures for your planning:
80% Subsidy: The funding covers 80% of the additional investment costs for the acquisition of an eBus or a DTE conversion compared to a diesel counterpart.
40% for Infrastructure: You will additionally receive 40% funding for the development of the necessary charging infrastructure at your depot.
31 August 2025: This is the very last date for submitting your project outline—a date that demands swift action.
2.8 million tonnes CO₂ savings: The vehicles funded so far make a substantial contribution to climate protection over their lifetime.
These figures clearly show: the state is strongly supporting the transition, but the window of opportunity is closing.
From Pressure to Action: Your 4-Point Checklist
Bureaucracy, high investments, and uncertain range specifications are hindering many decision-makers. However, with a structured approach, you can overcome these obstacles. The EU's Clean Vehicles Directive already mandates clear quotas for zero-emission vehicles in public tenders, which will rise to 65% by 2030. Utilise our tried-and-tested 4-point plan for your efficient electric bus strategy.
Conduct needs analysis: Analyse your current route profiles and circulation plans to determine the actual energy needs and the necessary range. Our experts support you in validating the requirement for vehicles like the Heero Tourer with a range of up to 400 km.
Calculate Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Compare more than just purchase costs. A TCO analysis shows that e-buses excel over their lifespan with up to 70% lower maintenance and energy costs.
Prepare funding application: Gather all necessary documents for the funding application by the deadline on 31st August 2025. Clean documentation is crucial for success.
Choose a partner for implementation: Rely on an experienced partner who not only delivers vehicles but also supports the planning of charging infrastructure and the application for funding.
A clear plan turns regulatory pressure into a strategic advantage for your company.
Make optimal use of funding opportunities: Save up to 80% of costs
The current "Directive for the Promotion of Alternative Drives for Buses in Public Transport" from the BMDV is the key instrument for your fleet conversion. It aims to cushion the additional costs of e-mobility and accelerate market ramp-up. The conversion of existing diesel vehicles is explicitly supported, reinforcing the approach of the circular economy. The funding rate of 80% applies to the additional investment costs of battery buses, while the charging infrastructure is subsidised by 40%. It is important that applications are assessed in a competitive process, with criteria such as CO₂ reduction and the degree of electrification playing a role. Secure your funding for e-buses now, before the deadline expires on 31 August 2025. Proper preparation is the key to succeeding in the competition for limited funds.
Cost Comparison: Why the TCO Supports E-Buses
The higher acquisition costs of an electric bus are just one side of the coin. Crucial for an economic assessment are the total operating costs, the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). This indicator takes into account all costs over the entire lifespan of a vehicle. Studies show that the TCO of an e-bus can already be up to 15% lower than that of a diesel bus. The reason for this is significantly lower expenses in two key areas. The energy costs per kilometre are significantly lower than with diesel. Moreover, maintenance costs are reduced by up to 40%, as electric motors have fewer moving parts and wear components such as exhaust systems are omitted. Therefore, investing in bus electric solutions is an economically wise decision. With a well-thought-out strategy for e-commercial vehicles, you can reduce your operational costs in the long term.
Focus on Technology: Retrofitting and New Vehicles
The right choice of technology depends on your fleet strategy. Heero offers you two proven approaches. The Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE) is a sustainable solution that retains your existing vehicles, especially expensive specialized constructions. For example, a DTE Sprinter can achieve a range of up to 425 km. For scheduled services, we offer specialized new vehicles. The Heero medium-low-floor bus with its 137 kWh battery achieves up to 300 km and charges with up to 165 kW in the shortest time. The Heero rear-low-floor bus also reaches up to 300 km range with a 110 kWh battery. For flexible passenger transport, the Heero Tourer minibus with up to 400 km range is the ideal choice. All models use proven technology for maximum reliability. This technological flexibility enables tailored solutions for your field of operation.
Charging Infrastructure: The Foundation for E-Operations
A powerful charging infrastructure is the backbone of your electrified fleet. Planning should occur in parallel with vehicle procurement and is subsidised by 40% of the costs. The key is analysing the charging requirements: is overnight depot charging (AC charging) sufficient, or are quick interim charges at terminal stops (DC fast charging) necessary? Our buses support DC charging capacities of up to 165 kW, which allows charging to 80% in under 45 minutes. Intelligent charging planning prevents costly load peaks and ensures the availability of your fleet at all times. We advise you in choosing the right charging solution, precisely tailored to your operational processes. This makes the transition to e-mobility smooth and efficient.
More useful links
The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) provides a press release on the current funding call for buses.
PwC has produced an accompanying study on the promotion of electric buses in public transport.
The Federal Funding Database offers detailed information on the promotion of alternative drives for buses in passenger transport.
The Federal Environment Agency informs about measures and strategies for climate protection in transport.
The KfW provides information on promoting sustainable mobility for companies and municipalities.
The Association of German Transport Companies (VDV) provides information on electromobility and other topics in public transport.
The National Platform Future of Mobility (NPM) published a report on electromobility in bus transport.
FAQ
What range do the electric bus solutions from Heero have?
Our vehicles are designed for practical everyday use. The Heero medium low-floor and rear low-floor bus can reach up to 300 km. The Tourer minibus manages up to 400 km and a transporter converted based on a sprinter can even reach up to 425 km.
How quickly can the Heero electric buses charge?
Our buses are designed for efficient operation. The standard DC charging capacity is up to 135 kW. The medium low-floor bus even supports fast charging with up to 165 kW DC, making the battery ready for use again in a short time.
Does Heero assist with applying for grants?
Yes, we see ourselves as your partner for the entire transformation. We support you with a free grant analysis and guide you through the application process to ensure you meet the deadline on 31 August 2025 and receive the maximum grant amount.
What is a Diesel-to-Electric (DTE) conversion?
In a DTE conversion, we replace the entire diesel powertrain (engine, transmission, tank) of your existing vehicle with a highly efficient electric drive with battery and control electronics. This conserves resources and is particularly useful for vehicles with expensive special structures.
What advantages does a DTE conversion offer for the circular economy?
Instead of scrapping a fully functional vehicle, we significantly extend its life cycle. This saves enormous amounts of CO₂, energy, and raw materials that would be incurred in the production of a new vehicle. You reduce waste and make a measurable contribution to sustainability.
Is the charging infrastructure also eligible for grants?
Yes, the construction of the charging and maintenance infrastructure necessary for the operation of the electric buses is subsidised under the same funding guideline with 40% of the eligible costs.
