Efficient fleet conversion: The entire process from pickup to delivery
Up to 425 km range after a diesel-to-electric upgrade – without the costs and effort of purchasing a new vehicle. Rising diesel prices, complex bureaucracy, and stringent climate regulations like the Clean Vehicles Directive demand pragmatic solutions for your fleet.
The topic briefly and concisely
The entire conversion process often takes less than 15 working days, from pickup to delivery.
Government grants cover up to 80% of the conversion costs, but applications must be submitted by August 31, 2025.
The conversion (DTE) reduces the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) through lower energy and maintenance costs and extends the lifespan of expensive special structures.
This article explains the entire process of retrofitting, from pickup to delivery, and shows how to future-proof your commercial vehicles. We outline the journey from the initial analysis of your fleet through precise reconstruction to the handover of your electrified vehicle. You will receive a clear 4-point checklist that transparently outlines the entire process. Learn how retrofitting can not only reduce the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) but also allow you to benefit from government grants of up to 80%, with the application deadline ending on August 31, 2025.
Your 4-point checklist for successful fleet electrification
The transition to electromobility need not be a complex effort. With a standardized approach, the entire process of retrofitting from pickup to delivery can be planned and efficient. In just four steps, we transform your existing vehicles into high-performance electric transporters. This process ensures the value retention of your fleet and equips them for the requirements of the Clean Vehicles Directive. Here is your roadmap:
Analysis and Funding Check: In just one business day, we analyze your fleet and identify the potential for savings. We check your eligibility for state grants of up to 80%.
Vehicle Pickup and Preparation: Our team will pick up your vehicle at the agreed time. A detailed initial inspection will take place at our facility, where over 50 technical points will be checked.
DTE Retrofitting (Diesel-to-Electric): Within ten business days, our experts will replace the combustion powertrain with our patented electric drive system. The process includes the installation of an electric motor, power electronics, and a 110-kWh battery.
Quality Assurance and Delivery: After over 100 test kilometers and a final quality control, we will return your retrofitted vehicle. You will receive comprehensive instructions and all relevant documents.
This structured approach minimizes your vehicles' downtime to under 15 days.
Utilize funding strategically and meet deadlines
The financing of the fleet conversion is significantly facilitated by attractive government programs. The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) supports the purchase and retrofitting of commercial vehicles under the guideline for the promotion of clean road vehicles. Crucial is the application deadline on August 31, 2025, to benefit from the high subsidies. The funding rates are clearly defined:
Up to 80% of the additional investment costs for the diesel-to-electric conversion (DTE) or the purchase of a new electric vehicle will be covered.
Up to 40% of the costs for setting up the necessary charging infrastructure at your business location are also eligible for funding.
These subsidies are a direct response to the European Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD), which obliges public procurers to procure low-emission vehicles. By the end of 2025, for example, 45% of all newly procured buses must be clean, half of which must be completely emission-free. With a DTE solution, you meet these requirements and can also obtain a fixed cost estimate for your planning security. The strategic use of these funds significantly lowers the entry barrier and accelerates the amortization of your investment.
Reduce total costs by lowering operating expenses
The higher purchase costs of an electric vehicle are often perceived as a hurdle. However, an analysis of the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), which includes the total operating costs over the entire lifespan, presents a different picture. The TCO encompasses not only the purchase but also energy, maintenance, taxes, and insurance. Studies show that the additional costs for an electric utility vehicle are often amortized within four to six years due to lower operating costs. The savings result from several factors:
Energy costs: The cost of electricity per 100 kilometers is significantly lower than that for diesel.
Maintenance: An electric drive has up to 90% fewer moving parts than an internal combustion engine, drastically reducing maintenance efforts and wear.
Taxes and fees: Electric vehicles benefit from tax reliefs and are exempt from CO₂-based truck tolls.
Especially with vehicles that have expensive special structures, the conversion from diesel to electric leverages its economic advantage. Instead of financing an entirely new vehicle including the body, only the powertrain is renewed. This not only conserves the budget but also secures the continued use of proven and already depreciated superstructures. Thus, the consideration of TCO is the key to an economically sound decision.
Technical performance and sustainability in focus
The practicality of electric commercial vehicles is determined by range, charging performance, and lifespan. Modern DTE solutions are designed for demanding commercial applications. For example, a Heero DTE-Sprinter achieves a real-world range of up to 425 kilometers on a single battery charge. The installed batteries (110 kWh gross / 96 kWh net) can be charged to 80% at DC fast charging stations with up to 135 kW in around 30 minutes. This enables efficient route planning with minimal downtime. You can always view the exact technical specifications.
Circular economy as a sustainable principle
The retrofitting of existing vehicles is a prime example of the principles anchored in the Circular Economy Act (KrWG). Instead of scrapping a functioning vehicle, its lifecycle is significantly extended by modernizing the drive system. This saves over 75% of the manufacturing energy compared to the new production of a transporter. Continuing to use the chassis, body, and special equipment conserves valuable resources and significantly reduces the CO₂ footprint of your fleet. This approach combines economic reason with ecological responsibility and strengthens your company as a sustainable player in the market. The longevity of components, such as lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFePO4) without cobalt, further underscores this advantage.
Your way to subsidized fleet modernization
The entire process of conversion from pickup to delivery is designed to provide you with maximum security and transparency. From the first, non-binding analysis to the handover of your modernized e-transporter, it often takes less than three weeks. Use the remaining time until the funding deadline on August 31, 2025, to prepare your fleet economically and sustainably for the future.
Start Your Funding Analysis
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More useful links
The Federal Environment Agency provides a comprehensive perspective on electric vehicles in freight transport.
The Fraunhofer ISI publishes a press release on the potentials and challenges of electromobility in commercial freight transport.
FAQ
Which vehicles can be converted?
HEERO specializes in the conversion of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter models. This includes panel vans, flatbed trucks, and buses, covering a wide range of commercial requirements.
How does the funding application process work?
We support you throughout the entire process. After an initial analysis of your fleet, we prepare the necessary documents and assist you with the application to ensure the deadline of August 31, 2025, is met.
What guarantees are there for the conversion?
You receive a comprehensive warranty on all components we install in the electric drivetrain, including the battery, electric motor, and power electronics. Details can be found in your individual offer.
What happens to the old diesel engine?
In the spirit of the circular economy, the removed components such as the engine and transmission are professionally reconditioned and returned to the material cycle instead of being simply disposed of.
Do I need a special charging infrastructure?
Our converted vehicles can be charged at all common AC and DC charging stations. For optimal and cost-efficient charging at your business location, we are happy to advise you and assist with the application for the 40% subsidy for charging infrastructure.
Will my vehicle's payload change due to the conversion?
Depending on the vehicle model, the conversion can be weight-neutral or even slightly increase the payload while maintaining the same permissible total weight. The exact data for your vehicle model will be determined during the analysis phase.
