E-commercial vehicles: Reduce TCO by 80% funding until August 31, 2025, and secure the future of the fleet.
Up to 80% government grant for electric commercial vehicles – but the application deadline ends on August 31, 2025. Rising diesel prices and the Clean Vehicles Directive increase the pressure further.
The topic briefly and concisely
The application deadline for the 80% funding for electric commercial vehicles and their retrofitting ends on August 31, 2025.
Converting a diesel vehicle to electric (DTE) conserves resources, maintains expensive special constructions, and is also funded by 80%.
Due to lower energy and maintenance costs, electric commercial vehicles often have a more favorable Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) compared to similar diesel vehicles.
The electrification of commercial vehicle fleets is no longer a distant possibility but a business necessity. Given the rising operating costs, the CO₂ toll, and legal requirements such as the Clean Vehicles Directive, fleet managers face significant challenges. At the same time, the transition to electric commercial vehicles offers enormous opportunities to reduce total operating costs (Total Cost of Ownership, TCO). The current federal funding program provides a unique opportunity with an 80% grant for vehicles and retrofits. This article pragmatically shows you how to use the funding in a timely manner, reduce your costs, and contribute to the circular economy by retrofitting existing vehicles.
The pressure is increasing: Why you need to switch to electric commercial vehicles now
The pressure on fleet operators is increasing from three sides. Firstly, high diesel prices and the CO₂-based truck toll burden budgets with every kilometer driven. Secondly, the European Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD) forces public authorities and their service providers to meet binding procurement quotas for clean vehicles. For example, by December 31, 2025, 45 percent of new buses and 10 percent of heavy commercial vehicles must be low-emission. Thirdly, customers and society demand more sustainable logistics. Many companies underestimate that the CVD has already been implemented into German law since August 2021. The transition to zero-emission electric commercial vehicles is therefore no longer an optional step but a strategic decision to secure your competitiveness. The time for an informed decision is running short, as the foundations for the next few years are being laid now.
Your 4-point action plan for timely fleet electrification
A structured approach is essential to make the transition efficient and economical. These four steps will certainly lead you to your goal:
Conduct a funding check: Check your eligibility for current state grants. The funding guidelines of the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) provide for up to 80% of the additional investment costs for vehicles and conversions. The crucial application deadline for this ends on August 31, 2025.
Create a TCO analysis: Consider the total cost of ownership (TCO). A TCO analysis compares all costs over the lifespan—from acquisition to energy and maintenance to residual value. It shows how the lower operating costs of electric vehicles offset the higher acquisition costs.
Audit the vehicle fleet: Not every vehicle needs to be purchased new. Identify which of your existing vehicles, especially those with expensive special structures, are suitable for a diesel-to-electric conversion (DTE). This conserves capital and resources.
Plan charging infrastructure: Analyze your need for charging infrastructure at your premises. There is also funding for up to 40% of the costs, which you can apply for in the same application process. Thoughtful planning ensures your fleet's readiness for operation.
With this plan, you can maximize your TCO advantages and set the right course.
Optimize the use of funding pots: Secure up to 80% subsidy for vehicle and retrofitting.
The current funding landscape in Germany is a crucial lever for the cost-effectiveness of your fleet conversion. According to the regulation on the promotion of commercial vehicles with alternative, climate-friendly drives (KsNI), the federal government is massively supporting market ramp-up. For companies, this means a reduction of investment costs by up to 80 percent for the purchase of a new electric commercial vehicle or the conversion of an existing vehicle. The promotion of the diesel-to-electric conversion (DTE) is particularly attractive, as it is recognized as a full-fledged measure. In addition, up to 40% of expenses for the establishment of the necessary non-public charging infrastructure are subsidized. The deadline for applications is August 31, 2025. Given the processing times at the authorities, an early start of the process is crucial to secure funding for your electric vehicle funding. After this date, the continuation of funding at this level is uncertain.
Economic Efficiency in Focus: The TCO Comparison of Diesel to Electric
The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is the crucial metric for a rational fleet decision. It includes all incurred costs and shows that the higher purchase price of an electric utility vehicle is only part of the equation. Here is a direct comparison of the cost factors:
Purchase: The costs for electric utility vehicles are initially higher but are drastically reduced by the 80% subsidy.
Energy: The electricity costs per 100 kilometers are significantly lower than the costs for diesel, even with fluctuating electricity prices.
Maintenance & Repair: Electric drives have significantly fewer wear parts than an internal combustion engine, which reduces maintenance costs by up to 50%.
Taxes & Fees: Electric utility vehicles are exempt from vehicle tax and are not subject to the CO₂-based truck toll, saving several thousand euros annually.
Studies show that the additional investment in an electric utility vehicle often pays off through lower operating costs after just four to six years. The comparison between new purchase and conversion often shows additional advantages for the conversion.
Circular Economy in Practice: The Benefits of Diesel-to-Electric Conversion
The conversion of your reliable diesel vehicles to modern electric drives is a prime example of circular economy in action. Instead of scrapping a fully functional vehicle with an expensive special bodywork, its life is extended. This process, known as Diesel-to-Electric (DTE), conserves valuable resources and your capital. A HEERO DTE-Sprinter achieves a practical range of up to 425 kilometers after conversion. The biggest advantage lies in retaining your existing structures, which are often worth more than the base vehicle itself. The conversion is also usually available faster than the delivery of a new vehicle. You not only reduce CO₂ emissions in operation, but also avoid the emissions and resource consumption that occur during the production of an entirely new vehicle. Discover the suitable HEERO conversion solutions for your fleet now.
Range and charging performance: Practical power for every application
Modern e-commercial vehicles are designed for demanding everyday work. The ranges and charging capacities are tailored to specific usage profiles, from last mile to regional distribution traffic. Here are some specific performance values from the HEERO portfolio:
HEERO eTransporter: With a range of up to 500 km, ideal for interregional delivery traffic.
HEERO DTE-Sprinter: After conversion, it achieves up to 425 km, making it extremely versatile.
HEERO Tourer (minibus 9 Pax): Perfect for shuttle service with a range of up to 400 km.
HEERO medium-low-floor bus: Offers up to 300 km range and charges to 80% in about 30 minutes thanks to 165 kW DC charging power.
All models (except the medium-low-floor bus) use a battery with 110 kWh gross (96 kWh net) and charge with up to 135 kW as standard. These values ensure that the vehicles are ready for use again after a short charging time and help to extend the lifespan of your fleet.
Start your funding analysis: Answer three questions, receive your grant roadmap, and take advantage of the 80% funding.
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More useful links
The German Bundestag provides a brief statement on relevant topics.
The Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) informs about current funding programs.
The National Control Center for Charging Infrastructure offers information specifically for commercial vehicles.
FAQ
What does Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) mean?
The Total Cost of Ownership (Gesamtbetriebskosten) is a calculation method that takes into account all costs over the entire lifespan of a vehicle. These include, in addition to the purchase price, expenses for energy (electricity/diesel), maintenance, repairs, insurance, taxes, and the expected depreciation.
What is the range of a converted electric commercial vehicle?
The range depends on the vehicle model and battery configuration. For example, a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (DTE-Sprinter) converted by Heero achieves a practical range of up to 425 kilometers.
How long does it take to charge an electric transporter?
With a DC fast charging station (up to 135 kW), the battery of most Heero models can be charged from 20% to 80% in about 45 minutes. The Heero mid-low floor bus even requires only about 30 minutes with up to 165 kW charging power.
Is my existing commercial vehicle suitable for conversion?
Heero specializes in the electrification of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter models. Whether your specific vehicle is suitable for a Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE) can be clarified in a free and non-binding analysis.
Do I also receive funding for the charging infrastructure?
Yes, the construction of non-public charging infrastructure is subsidized under the same funding program with up to 40% of eligible costs. The application can be submitted together with the vehicle funding.
What happens after August 31, 2025?
It is currently unclear if and in what form the funding program will continue after the deadline. To secure the current, very favorable conditions of 80% subsidy, it is urgently recommended to submit an application before August 31, 2025.
