Bus Electric Press Release: Secure 80% funding before the deadline on 31 August 2025
Over 3,500 electric buses have already been subsidized by up to 80% - when will you electrify your fleet? The current funding round from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) ends on 31 August 2025, creating a clear urgency for transport companies and municipalities.
The topic briefly and concisely
The current funding guideline from the BMDV subsidises the purchase or conversion of electric buses with 80% of the additional costs.
The crucial deadline for submitting project proposals for funding is 31 August 2025.
The Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE) conserves resources in the spirit of the circular economy and is often more cost-effective in terms of total cost of ownership (TCO) than purchasing new.
Rising diesel prices, stricter environmental regulations through the EU's Clean Vehicles Directive, and the growing pressure to reduce CO₂ emissions present significant challenges for fleet operators. Electrification is no longer just an option; it is an economic and regulatory necessity. The current electric bus media coverage is dominated by the ongoing funding directive of the BMDV, which offers a unique opportunity: 80% of the additional costs for the purchase of e-buses or the conversion of existing diesel vehicles are covered. This guide shows you how to proceed pragmatically, meet the deadline, and find the right solution for you – whether it's a new vehicle or a sustainable Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE).
Pressure to Act by 2025: The Facts on E-Bus Funding
The public discussion, the so-called Bus Electric Press Echo, is currently focused on the final phase of the 'Directive for the Promotion of Alternative Drives for Buses in Passenger Transport.' The deadline for submitting project drafts is limited to 31 August 2025. This creates a clear framework for action for all fleet operators.
Here are the key points of the promotion:
80% Subsidy: The promotion covers 80 percent of the additional investment costs for new vehicles or a Diesel-to-Electric conversion compared to a reference diesel vehicle.
40% for Infrastructure: The necessary charging infrastructure is subsidised with up to 40 percent of the costs.
31 August 2025: This is the deadline for submitting project drafts to the project manager Jülich (PtJ).
Technology Openness: Both battery buses and the conversion of conventional buses are supported.
This promotion is the direct response to regulatory requirements such as the EU's Clean Vehicles Directive, which obligates public purchasers to procure low-emission vehicles. For Germany, this means that by the end of 2025, at least 45 percent of all newly procured buses must be 'clean,' with half of them even completely emission-free. The pressure to modernise your fleet is therefore not only economically but also legally anchored.
Your 4-Point Plan for Timely Grant Assurance
Bureaucracy and tight deadlines require a structured approach. With a clear checklist, you can secure the grants without rush. The allocation of funds is carried out through a competitive process, in which criteria such as CO₂ saving potential are evaluated.
Follow these four steps for a successful application:
Conduct needs analysis: Analyse your current routes, schedules, and daily mileage. Determine which vehicles are suitable for conversion or where a new vehicle represents the best solution.
Check economic viability: Create a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis. Compare the total operating costs of a DTE conversion with those of a new purchase and a continued operation of a diesel bus. Consider energy, maintenance, and funding costs.
Technical specification and offer collection: Define the requirements for battery capacity, range, and charging capability. Obtain a specific offer for the conversion or a new vehicle, which serves as the basis for the funding application.
Submit application on time: Submit your complete project outline via the funding portal easy-Online by no later than 31 August 2025. A detailed funding application is the key to success.
A well-prepared plan is the foundation to fully exploit the financial benefits and set the course for a future-proof fleet.
Circular economy in practice: The benefits of DTE conversion
Sustainability means more than just emissions-free operation. It begins with resource conservation. The Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE) is a prime example of a functioning circular economy. Instead of replacing a proven vehicle with an expensive special construction, its lifecycle is extended by many years. This protects your initial investment and saves up to 60% of the CO₂ emissions that would occur during the production of a new vehicle.
The DTE solution is technologically advanced and field-tested. A Heero DTE-Sprinter, for example, achieves a range of up to 425 kilometres. The conversion is not only an ecological but also an economic decision. Analysis of the Total Cost of Ownership often shows that conversion is cheaper over the entire lifespan than a new purchase, especially when considering the high subsidy rates. The continued use of the chassis and the structure significantly reduces acquisition costs. Thus, a cost factor becomes a strategic advantage in fleet management.
Performance and range: Heero technology in detail
The practicality of electric buses is measured by their range and charging performance. Modern e-buses and retrofitted vehicles are in no way inferior to their diesel counterparts. The HEERO vehicle fleet is based on precise and verified performance data, which ensures planning reliability in daily operations.
Our vehicles deliver reliable performance:
Heero Tourer (Minibus 9 Pax): With a battery capacity of 110 kWh gross (96 kWh net), it achieves a real range of up to 400 kilometres.
Heero Mid-Low-Floor Bus: Equipped with a 137 kWh gross battery (115 kWh net), it achieves up to 300 kilometres range and supports DC fast charging with up to 165 kW.
Heero Rear-Low-Floor Bus: Also offers up to 300 kilometres range and charges with up to 135 kW DC power.
A charging power of 165 kW means that the bus can be recharged to 80% of its battery capacity in about 30 minutes. These short downtime periods enable seamless integration into existing service schedules. The combination of high range and fast charging makes electrification the ideal solution for almost any application profile in public and private passenger transport. Visit our page for all e-bus models.
Start your funding analysis: Your path to 80% funding
The deadline on 31 August 2025 is approaching. Use the remaining time to future-proof your fleet and take advantage of the maximum grants. A thorough analysis is the first step towards a successful transformation and a positive electric bus press response for your company.
Start your funding analysis: Answer three questions, receive your grant roadmap, and make use of the 80% funding.
Button: “To free analysis”
free · non-binding · timely
More useful links
The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) provides information in a press release about the current funding call for buses with alternative drives.
The Future Network for Public Transport reports on the funding of e-buses by the government and their significance for public transport.
The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs offers insights into the energy transition in a newsletter announcement, which also benefits electric buses.
An article from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) highlights the milestone of 1,000 funded e-buses in Germany.
The Project Management Jülich (PtJ) provides detailed information about the funding for the procurement of buses with alternative drives.
The Association of German Transport Companies (VDV) provides information about its e-bus project and the progress in the electrification of bus traffic.
PwC offers a comprehensive analysis and insights into the market for electric buses with the E-Bus Radar.
FAQ
Is it worth converting my old diesel bus to electric drive?
Yes, in many cases, the conversion (DTE) is economically very worthwhile. You protect your investment in the vehicle structure, save the costs of a new purchase, and benefit from the 80% subsidy. A Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis often shows clear cost advantages compared to a new purchase.
What range can I expect from a converted bus?
The range depends on the vehicle type and battery configuration. A Sprinter converted by Heero can achieve a range of up to 425 km, for example. Our bus solutions offer ranges of up to 400 km depending on the model.
How long does it take to charge an electric bus?
With modern DC fast charging technology, charging times are very short. The Heero low-floor bus can charge at up to 165 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 20% to 80% in around 30 minutes. This enables seamless integration into daily operations.
Who is eligible to apply for subsidies?
Eligible applicants include transport companies and other users in the bus industry, including municipal and private operators active in public passenger transport or other types of transport, such as factory or occasional transport.
