Bus Electric Press: Secure 80% funding for e-buses by 31 August 2025
Already over 3,500 e-buses benefit from an 80% subsidy – when will you electrify your fleet? Time is running out, as the current funding round from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) ends on 31 August 2025. Discover how to transition pragmatically while strengthening the circular economy.
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.
The Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE) is a sustainable and economical alternative to buying new, allowing existing vehicles to continue being used in the spirit of the circular economy.
A Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis is crucial because electric buses often prove to be more cost-effective in the long term due to lower energy and maintenance expenses compared to diesel vehicles.
Rising diesel prices, strict climate regulations from the EU Clean Vehicles Directive, and high bureaucratic effort present fleet operators with enormous challenges. Electrifying public and commercial passenger transport is no longer an option, but a business necessity. This article serves as a guide for your press and information work on the topic of electric buses and outlines in four clear steps how to set the course for an economical and sustainable future. We explain the crucial factors from funding analysis to TCO assessment to selecting the right technology—whether a new vehicle or an innovative Diesel-to-Electric conversion.
Quick Facts: The current subsidy situation for e-buses
The time for electrifying your bus fleet is now. The framework conditions are clearly defined and offer a unique economic opportunity. Up to 80 per cent of the additional costs compared to a diesel bus are subsidised. Here are the key facts you need for your planning:
80% Funding Rate: The government covers up to 80% of the additional investment costs for the purchase of battery-electric buses or the conversion of existing diesel vehicles.
40% for Charging Infrastructure: The development of the necessary charging infrastructure is also subsidised with up to 40% of the costs.
Deadline 31st August 2025: Project drafts for the current funding round must be submitted to the Project Management Jülich by this date.
Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD): The EU directive requires public procurers to meet fixed quotas for zero-emission vehicles in new procurements, further increasing the pressure to act.
This funding framework creates a solid basis for the transition, but success depends on strategic preparation.
Your 4-Point Action Plan for Successful Promotion
The path to funding and successful fleet electrification can seem complex. However, with a structured approach, you can efficiently overcome the hurdles. A precisely prepared application is the key to success. We recommend the following four steps:
Conduct a needs analysis: Analyse your current routes, circulation plans, and energy requirements. Determine which vehicles are suitable for conversion and where new vehicles are the better option. A conversion conserves resources and capital.
Calculate Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Consider the total operating costs. A TCO analysis compares all costs over the lifespan - from acquisition through energy and maintenance to residual value. Often, this reveals the superiority of e-mobility.
Check and apply for funding: Prepare all documents for the funding application. Make sure to detail the CO₂ savings potential and the strategic deployment context, as required by the 2025 E-Bus funding.
Select a technology partner: Look for a partner who not only supplies vehicles but also supports the planning of charging infrastructure and application submission.
Having a precise understanding of the funding details is the decisive lever for the profitability of your project.
Funding Programs and Regulations in Detail
The current 'Guideline for Promoting Alternative Drives for Buses in Passenger Transport' by the BMDV is the central tool for transport companies. It aims to accelerate the market ramp-up of e-buses and achieve climate targets in the transport sector. The funding explicitly covers the conversion of diesel vehicles, which is particularly sustainable in terms of the circular economy. The EU's Clean Vehicles Directive supports this path by prescribing binding minimum quotas for the procurement of clean vehicles, thus ensuring constant demand. For social organisations, programmes such as 'Social & Mobile' can also be relevant, providing additional support for the transition. The combination of these instruments makes the investment plannable and economically attractive, making a detailed cost analysis all the more important.
TCO Analysis: Why Conversion is Often More Profitable Than New Purchase
The acquisition costs of an electric bus are just one side of the coin. The crucial metric for a well-informed decision is the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), which means the total operating costs over the entire service life. This is where electric buses show their strengths: Lower energy, maintenance, and repair costs often offset the higher purchase price after just a few years. It becomes particularly economical with the Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE). Continuing to use an existing vehicle saves up to 50% of the cost of a new vehicle. Especially with expensive special structures, the investment made is preserved. A detailed TCO calculation shows that the combination of 80% funding and saved operating costs drastically shortens the payback period. The right vehicle technology is key to achieving maximum efficiency.
Heero Technology: Range and charging power for everyday practice
The practicality of electric buses is defined by range and charging performance. Heero relies on proven technology designed for demanding daily use in suburban and intercity transport. All models utilise a battery with 96 kWh net capacity, except for the medium low-floor bus, which uses a 115 kWh net capacity. Here's an overview of the performance metrics:
Heero Medium Low-Floor Bus: Up to 300 km range, 115 kWh net battery, and a DC fast charging capability of up to 165 kW.
Heero Rear Low-Floor Bus: Also up to 300 km range, powered by a 96 kWh net battery with up to 135 kW charging performance.
Heero Tourer (9-seater minibus): Ideal for shuttle services with up to 400 km range, 96 kWh net battery, and 135 kW DC charging performance.
Heero DTE-Sprinter: After conversion, the proven transporter achieves up to 425 km range.
These values ensure reliable operation without compromise and form the technical foundation for a successful fleet conversion.
Act now: Your free funding analysis
The deadline on 31 August 2025 is approaching. Don't wait until the bureaucratic burden increases and time becomes tight. Seize the opportunity now to pave the way for an emission-free and economical future. A professional analysis of your individual funding opportunities is the first and most crucial step.
Start your funding analysis: Answer three questions, receive your grant roadmap and take advantage of the 80% funding.
Button: “To the free analysis”
free · non-binding · timely
More useful links
The Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV) publishes press releases regarding the funding call for buses and provides information on current developments.
The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action offers insights into the energy transition and relevant funding programmes through its newsletter announcements.
The Future Network Public Transport provides news updates on the funding of e-buses by the government and the associated opportunities.
The Project Management Jülich (PtJ) provides detailed information on funding opportunities for bus procurement.
The National Control Centre for Charging Infrastructure offers comprehensive information on the expansion and use of charging infrastructure in Germany.
The Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) provides official statistics and data on passenger transport in Germany.
The Federal Environment Agency offers detailed information and recommendations on climate protection in the transport sector.
The Association of German Transport Companies (VDV) provides information about its e-bus project and the development of electric bus transport.
FAQ
What is the current funding for electric buses?
The funding from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) covers up to 80% of the additional investment costs for the purchase or conversion of electric buses compared to a reference diesel vehicle. The associated charging infrastructure is subsidised with up to 40% of the costs.
Until when must the funding application be submitted?
The deadline for submitting project outlines in the current funding round is 31 August 2025. An early application is recommended due to the competitive procedure.
Is it worth converting an old diesel bus to electric drive?
Yes, the Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE) is often very worthwhile. It not only conserves resources in terms of the circular economy but is also eligible for funding and can significantly reduce total cost of ownership (TCO) compared to a new purchase, especially if expensive special attachments are retained.
What are the ranges of the E-buses from Heero?
The ranges vary depending on the model. The Heero Tourer minibus reaches up to 400 km, while the medium and rear low-floor buses for public transport are designed for up to 300 km. A converted Sprinter can even drive up to 425 km.
What should be considered when planning the charging infrastructure?
When planning the charging infrastructure, schedule plans, vehicle idle times, and available grid capacity must be taken into account. Heero supports the analysis and planning to develop an optimal and also fundable charging solution.
Is the funding guaranteed if I submit an application?
No, the allocation of funding follows a competitive process. The submitted project outlines are evaluated, among other things, according to their CO₂ savings potential and context of use. A professionally prepared outline significantly increases the chances of success.
