E-Bus Funding 2025: How to secure an 80% grant through the easy online application
The federal government has launched a new funding call for e-buses and conversions with a quota of 80%. Time is short: applications must be submitted via the easy-online portal by August 31, 2025. We show you the direct path to successful funding.
The topic briefly and concisely
A new funding call from the federal government subsidizes e-buses and conversions with up to 80% of the additional costs.
Project sketches must be submitted by August 31, 2025, through the official funding portal "easy-Online."
The retrofitting of existing vehicles is explicitly eligible for funding and is an economical alternative to purchasing new ones.
The electrification of commercial vehicle fleets presents municipalities and companies with significant investment decisions. With the new funding call from the Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV), this transition is now more economical than ever. Up to 80% of the additional costs for the purchase of electric buses or the conversion of existing diesel vehicles are subsidized. This guide walks you through the key aspects of the E-Bus funding easy-Online 2025 and shows how you can not only optimally utilize funding with the D2E conversion from Heero, but also preserve your existing vehicle values in the spirit of the circular economy.
New funding call: 80% grant for the e-bus transformation
The Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV) launched a new, decisive funding round for climate-friendly buses in July 2025. Transport companies receive a funding rate of 80 percent of the additional costs compared to a conventional diesel bus. This significantly reduces the acquisition costs for a new e-bus or a retrofit. The deadline for submitting project outlines via the federal funding portal is August 31, 2025. The program supports battery buses, fuel cell buses, and explicitly also the retrofitting of diesel vehicles. This measure is a key component in achieving climate goals and making public transport in Germany future-proof. The allocation takes place through a competitive process that paves the way for broad market acceptance. Thus, modernization is now tangible for fleet operators, from municipalities to logistics companies.
The application process: Step by step through the easy online portal
The funding application must be submitted via the electronic form system "easy-Online." This digital process is designed to simplify the application process for over 360 transport companies and users. Early preparation is crucial, as the deadline is August 31, 2025. The submitted project outlines will be evaluated based on several criteria. These include the expected CO₂ reduction, the planned electrification rate of the fleet, and the overall funding requirements. Companies with few or no electric buses will be given preferential treatment in the allocation process. Careful documentation and a clear presentation of the electrification concept are therefore critical to success. For a smooth process, the ministry also offers an online seminar on July 15, 2025. The checklist for the funding application helps keep all requirements in view.
What is being promoted? Vehicle types and infrastructure in detail
The funding guideline is broadly structured to meet the diverse needs of fleet operators. It not only covers the procurement of new vehicles but also creates incentives for sustainable existing fleets. The funding includes the following points:
Battery buses: Including trolleybuses suitable for urban route services.
Fuel cell buses: Including models with range extenders for longer distances.
D2E conversion: The conversion of conventional buses to battery or fuel cell drives is explicitly eligible for funding.
Infrastructure: The necessary charging, refueling, and maintenance infrastructure is also subsidized.
This broad coverage enables the establishment of a comprehensive ecosystem for e-mobility. The current BMDV guideline provides the basis for these investments. This makes the transition manageable for businesses of all sizes, from craft enterprises to large logistics companies.
Maximize your chances: Strategies for a successful funding application
A successful application under the E-Bus funding easy-Online 2025 requires more than just filling out forms on time. Since the funds are awarded in a competitive process, the quality of the project outline is crucial. The CO₂ reduction achieved through the measure is rated particularly highly. Highly efficient solutions like the Heero D2E conversion, which utilizes existing vehicle resources, score well here. After a positive decision, the buses must be firmly ordered within 12 months. Therefore, it is advisable to have concrete offers and technical concepts ready during the application phase. We recommend the following steps for optimal preparation:
Analysis of one's own fleet and usage profiles.
Obtaining offers for vehicles or conversions.
Creation of a detailed electrification concept.
Checking the valid deadlines and dates.
Professional consulting can make the decisive difference here and significantly increase the chances of success.
HEERO D2E retrofit: The economical alternative to buying new
The funding guidelines recognize the conversion of diesel vehicles as an equivalent measure to new purchases. This is a strategic opportunity for fleet operators, especially those with expensive special setups. Instead of completely replacing a proven vehicle, only the drive train is exchanged. Our D2E conversion for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is such a solution that protects investments and implements the principles of circular economy. The costs for a conversion are often significantly lower than those for a new electric vehicle, making the funding even more efficient. With a range of up to 425 km, our converted vehicles prove their full practicality. The funding rate of 80 percent also applies here to the conversion costs. Thus, the switch to e-mobility becomes not only ecologically but also economically the smartest decision.
Conclusion: Your advantage with HEERO in the E-Bus funding 2025
The current E-Bus funding easy-Online 2025 provides a unique opportunity to set the course for an emission-free and economical future. With a subsidy rate of 80% and the recognition of conversions, the federal government creates strong incentives. Heero stands by your side as an innovative partner to optimally utilize this opportunity. We not only offer state-of-the-art E-vehicles but also with our patented D2E conversion a pragmatic solution that reduces costs and maximizes sustainability. Our expertise ensures you a smooth transition, from analysis to final implementation. Make use of the remaining time until August 31, 2025, and shape the future of your fleet. Request your personal consultation now or book a daily test at no charge to convince yourself of the performance of our solutions.
More useful links
The official website of the Federal Government provides comprehensive information on political initiatives and funding programs, including the transition in transportation and electromobility.
The NOW GmbH is a federal owned company that coordinates the development and implementation of funding programs for sustainable mobility and energy, such as the federal funding for e-buses.
The Project Management Jülich (PtJ) is an institution of the Jülich Research Center and supports federal ministries in the implementation of research and innovation funding programs, including the evaluation of applications for e-bus funding.
FAQ
How does the application through easy-Online work?
The application is carried out through the electronic form system "easy-Online" on the federal funding portal. You must submit a project outline there, which describes your project in detail, including the expected CO2 savings and the overall concept.
Can I also receive funding for converting my Sprinter?
Yes, the guideline explicitly promotes the conversion of conventional buses to alternative drives. Our HEERO D2E conversion for Mercedes-Benz Sprinter falls under this regulation, allowing you to benefit from the full funding rate.
What happens after submitting the project outline?
The submitted outlines are evaluated in a competitive process. Criteria include CO₂ avoidance, application context, and electrification rate. If approved, the funds are granted after the Federal Budget Act comes into force in autumn 2025.
What documents do I need for the application?
You need a detailed project outline that describes your electrification project. This includes an analysis of the fleet, technical concepts for vehicles and infrastructure, as well as a cost calculation and the expected CO2 reduction. A precise overview of the funding application is recommended.
Does HEERO offer support with the funding application?
Yes, we are happy to support you. As part of a free consultation, we analyze your project and provide you with the necessary technical data and concepts for our vehicles and conversions to strengthen your application.
Is there a minimum number of vehicles required for funding?
The funding guideline does not specify a minimum number. The overall concept and contribution to CO2 reduction are decisive. Even smaller fleet operators, such as in trades or specialized logistics services, may be eligible to apply.
