Bus Electric References: Achieve the TCO turnaround with 80% funding by 2025
Already 3,500 e-buses have secured an 80% subsidy – when will you electrify your fleet? Time is ticking, as the current funding round ends on 31 August 2025. Discover how you can economically and timely achieve the transition with proven bus electric references and a clear strategy.
The topic briefly and concisely
The current funding round from the BMDV offers an 80% subsidy for e-buses and DTE conversions, as well as 40% for charging infrastructure, but applications must be submitted by 31 August 2025.
The conversion from diesel to electric drive (DTE) is a sustainable and cost-efficient alternative to purchasing new vehicles, preserving the value of existing vehicles and supporting the principles of the circular economy.
An analysis of the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) indicates that e-buses are economically more viable in the long run compared to diesel vehicles, offering up to 40% lower maintenance and energy costs.
Rising diesel prices, strict requirements from the Clean Vehicles Directive, and the growing pressure to achieve sustainability goals pose enormous challenges for fleet operators. Transitioning to electromobility is no longer an option but an economic necessity. However, many shy away from the high initial investments and the complexity of bureaucracy. This article shows you how to use the 80% government funding for vehicles and conversions, reduce your Total Cost of Ownership, and future-proof your fleet, using concrete electric bus references and a clear 4-point plan – all before the important deadline on 31 August 2025.
Quick Facts: Your Benefits Until the Funding Deadline, 31 August 2025
The time for electrifying your bus fleet is now. The conditions have never been more favourable, thanks to targeted subsidies and clear legal requirements. Already over 1,000 subsidised e-buses are operating on Germany's roads. Here are the key facts you need to know:
80% subsidy on vehicles: The Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMDV) subsidises the purchase of new electric buses as well as Diesel-to-Electric conversions (DTE) with up to 80% of the additional costs compared to a diesel counterpart.
40% for charging infrastructure: The establishment of the necessary charging infrastructure is also subsidised with up to 40% of the investment costs, further lowering the entry barrier.
Deadline 31 August 2025: Project drafts for the current funding round must be submitted by this date to benefit from the attractive conditions.
Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD): This EU directive already mandates a quota of 45% for 'clean' buses in new public procurements, further increasing the pressure to act.
These four points create a clear momentum that fleet operators should now use to strategically plan the transition.
Your 4-point action plan for timely electrification
Switching to electric buses seems complex, but can be successfully managed with a pragmatic approach. Bureaucracy and technical questions are solvable if you proceed in a structured manner. Thousands of buses have already been successfully converted. Here is your checklist for success in four steps:
Analyse needs and routes: Determine the exact energy requirement of your routes. Vehicles like the Heero Tourer minibus offer solutions for demanding day operations today, with a range of up to 400 km.
Check funding opportunities: The current BMDV directive is your biggest chance to reduce costs. A precisely prepared application is crucial. Use specialised consultations to optimise the process for your eBus funding application.
Make the right technology choice: Weigh up new purchase against a Diesel-to-Electric conversion. A DTE solution not only saves the budget but is also a strong signal for the circular economy and preserves expensive special structures.
Plan charging infrastructure and operation: Plan the charging infrastructure parallel to the vehicle procurement. With DC rapid charging capacities of up to 165 kW, as with the Heero Low-floor intermediate bus, short downtimes and high vehicle availability are guaranteed.
With this plan, you turn the challenge of electrification into a clear competitive advantage.
Leverage funding pots effectively: How to secure an 80% subsidy
The current 'Directive for the Promotion of Alternative Drives for Buses in Passenger Transport' from the BMDV is the central instrument for financing your fleet conversion. It explicitly covers the additional costs for the purchase of battery buses and the conversion of diesel vehicles. The funding rate of 80% often makes the investment economically feasible. It is important that the applications are evaluated competitively, with criteria such as CO₂ savings potential and the degree of electrification playing a role. The funding is a clear political commitment to the mobility transition and offers you a unique financial leverage. Successful electric bus projects have shown that early and professional application submission is the key to success. The time until 31 August 2025 should therefore be used intensively for preparation. This financial support is crucial to ensure profitability from the very beginning.
Cost comparison: Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) instead of purchase price
A sole focus on purchase price distorts reality. The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), meaning the overall operating costs over the entire lifecycle, is the crucial metric. Electric buses perform significantly better in this regard. Studies show that maintenance costs are up to 40% lower than those for diesel vehicles, as many wear parts such as exhaust systems or oil changes are no longer needed. Added to this are the considerably lower and more stable energy costs compared to volatile diesel prices. A converted Heero Diesel-to-Electric Sprinter with a range of up to 425 km can achieve a TCO saving of over 25% over a period of ten years. These savings in energy and maintenance often offset the higher purchase or conversion costs after just a few years. A detailed Total Cost of Ownership analysis is therefore the basis for a well-founded investment decision. Considering the TCO shows how sustainable technology and economic sense go hand in hand.
Technology in Focus: Conversion as a Smart Path to Sustainability
The Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE) is a core competency of HEERO and an economically as well as ecologically superior alternative to a new purchase. Instead of scrapping a fully functional vehicle, its lifecycle is extended – a prime example of circular economy. This is particularly advantageous for vehicles with expensive specialised bodies, as are common with municipalities or craft businesses. Our conversion solutions are based on proven technology and offer impressive performance figures. The Heero rear low-floor bus, for example, achieves a real range of up to 300 km with its 96 kWh net battery and charges at up to 135 kW. These performance figures prove that a conversion doesn't mean compromises in practicality. Rather, it combines proven vehicle architecture with the latest drive technology. This technological maturity is the foundation for reliable operation in everyday life.
Charging infrastructure: The backbone of your e-fleet
An efficient charging infrastructure is key to the efficient operation of an e-bus fleet. The 40% subsidy from the BMDV for building charging infrastructure is therefore just as important a component as the vehicle subsidy itself. The planning must consider the operational process: depot charging overnight or opportunity charging at terminal stops. Heero vehicles are designed for both. The low-floor bus can charge with up to 165 kW DC (direct current), which means that in just 30 minutes, up to 80% of the range is available again. These high charging capacities minimize downtime and maximize vehicle availability. Intelligent charging planning that avoids peak loads and takes advantage of favourable electricity tariffs further reduces operating costs. The right charging infrastructure thus ensures the performance of your new, clean fleet.
More useful links
The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) reports on the milestone of 1000 funded e-buses in Germany.
PwC offers an accompanying study on the promotion of electric buses in public transport (ÖPNV) as a PDF document.
Statista provides a comprehensive page on electromobility with current data and facts.
You can find another article on electromobility in Germany at the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV).
The Association of German Transport Companies (VDV) informs about its e-bus project and its progress.
Wikipedia offers a detailed article on battery buses and their functionality.
The KfW provides information on its funding programs for electromobility specifically for companies.
Agora Verkehrswende publishes an analysis on the transition to electric buses in Europe.
The German Environment Agency offers a topic page with comprehensive information on electromobility.
FAQ
What range do the converted buses from Heero have?
The range varies depending on the model. The Heero Tourer (minibus for 9 people) reaches up to 400 km, while the mid and rear low-floor bus is designed for up to 300 km. A converted DTE-Sprinter can even achieve a range of up to 425 km.
How long does it take to charge a Heero E-Bus?
The charging time depends on the charging capacity. With a DC fast charging capacity of up to 135 kW (standard) or 165 kW (mid low-floor bus), charging to 80% of battery capacity can be achieved in about 30-40 minutes, minimizing downtimes.
Are converted vehicles as reliable as new E-Buses?
Yes. With the DTE conversion from Heero, proven base vehicles are combined with high-quality, new electric components. This creates a reliable and durable solution built on the tested quality of the original vehicle.
Who can apply for funding for electric buses?
Eligible for the BMDV funding are transport companies and other stakeholders in the bus industry in Germany who wish to convert their fleets to eco-friendly drives. This includes both public and private operators.
What happens if I miss the deadline on 31 August 2025?
It is uncertain if and when a new funding round with similarly attractive conditions will be launched. Missing the deadline means losing the current opportunity for 80% co-financing, which can significantly affect the economic viability of the fleet conversion.
Does Heero offer support in applying for funding?
Yes, Heero offers a complimentary funding analysis. Our experts help you create your grant roadmap and support you in preparing the application documents promptly and completely to maximize your chances of success.
