Stable driving behavior due to optimized center of gravity: Find the right retrofit for your fleet
Up to 425 kilometers of range after a diesel-to-electric upgrade – and without the cost of a new vehicle. Rising diesel prices and strict environmental regulations are forcing fleet operators to take action. An intelligent retrofitting offers more than just compliance: it fundamentally optimizes vehicle stability.
The topic briefly and concisely
A DTE conversion lowers the vehicle's center of gravity by placing the batteries low, which significantly increases driving stability and safety.
The current BMDV directive promotes the retrofitting of commercial vehicles by 80% and the charging infrastructure by 40% – the application deadline is August 31, 2025.
By continuing to use the vehicle chassis in the spirit of the circular economy, a retrofit conserves resources and maintains the value of expensive special builds.
For fleet managers in the public and commercial sector, modernizing the fleet is a complex challenge. Confronted with rising operating costs, the bureaucracy of grant applications, and the strict requirements of the Clean Vehicles Directive, many are looking for a pragmatic solution. It is important to make a future-proof decision that combines cost-effectiveness and sustainability. A professional Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE) is often the strategically smarter way than purchasing new vehicles. This article explains how to find a conversion that optimizes the vehicle's center of gravity for stable driving behavior, reduces total cost of ownership (TCO), and how to secure a government subsidy of 80% before the deadline of August 31, 2025.
Redefine the vehicle center of gravity to improve performance
Many fleet operators underestimate how strongly the drive affects the driving characteristics of a van. A conventional diesel engine is a heavy block positioned high in the vehicle, which shifts the center of gravity upwards. This can lead to noticeable body roll in curves or during quick evasive maneuvers. Converting to an electric drive fundamentally changes the weight distribution and becomes the decisive factor for vehicle control.
During a HEERO Diesel-to-Electric conversion, the old combustion engine and tank are removed. In their place, a compact electric motor and a battery pack with a gross capacity of 110 kWh are placed deep within the vehicle frame. This reconfiguration significantly lowers the vehicle's center of gravity. The result is significantly improved road handling and a more agile driving behavior, which greatly increases safety for both the driver and cargo. The optimized axle load distribution ensures more traction and a confident driving experience. Thus, a standard van is transformed into a vehicle with superior driving dynamics. Learn more about the technical details of a conversion.
This technical optimization is more than just a side effect; it is a central advantage of electrification that makes everyday work safer and more efficient.
Implement your 4-point action plan for 80 percent funding
The path to an electrified fleet and the associated funding often seems bureaucratic. However, with a clear plan, you can secure the subsidies on time until August 31, 2025. Follow the four steps below:
Conduct a needs analysis of your fleet: Record the daily driving distances, typical payloads, and downtimes of your vehicles. This creates the data foundation for selecting the appropriate retrofit solution, such as a DTE Sprinter with up to 425 kilometers of range.
Calculate Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Compare the acquisition and retrofit costs with savings from energy, maintenance, taxes, and insurance. A DTE retrofit reduces operating costs by up to 50 percent.
Check funding opportunities and observe deadlines: The current BMDV funding guidelines subsidize the retrofit by 80% and the charging infrastructure by 40%. The deadline for applications is August 31, 2025.
Request a free funding analysis: Use the expertise of specialists to prepare your application. A professional analysis maximizes your chances of success and ensures that all documents are submitted correctly and on time. This will enhance the driving comfort for your employees.
This structured approach turns the application process into a manageable process instead of a bureaucratic hurdle.
Use the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) as a basis for decision-making.
The pure purchase price or conversion costs are only part of the truth. The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) provides a complete overview of all costs incurred over the entire lifespan of a vehicle. This metric is crucial for assessing the true economic viability of an investment. When converting a diesel transporter to an electric vehicle, the TCO is significantly lower than that of a comparable combustion engine.
The key factors that positively influence the TCO are:
Energy costs: The costs for electricity per 100 kilometers are more than 60% lower than for diesel.
Maintenance and repair: An electric motor has up to 90% fewer moving parts than a diesel engine, which drastically reduces maintenance effort.
Taxes and fees: Electric vehicles are exempt from vehicle tax for ten years.
CO₂ pricing: Future rising costs for CO₂ emissions will be completely eliminated.
Subsidies: The grant of 80% on the conversion costs significantly reduces the initial investment.
Many companies find that the investment in a conversion pays off after just three to four years. A detailed TCO analysis reveals the enormous savings potential and provides a data-based foundation for your decision.
Establishing the circular economy as a sustainable business model
A diesel-to-electric conversion is a prime example of a circular economy in action. Instead of scrapping a fully functional vehicle with expensive specialized equipment, its lifecycle is extended by at least another ten years. This not only conserves valuable resources but also avoids the CO₂ emissions that would result from manufacturing a completely new vehicle. This saving alone corresponds to the energy consumption of a converted vehicle for approximately 50,000 kilometers.
The approach "Conversion instead of New Purchase" offers several advantages:
Resource Conservation: The chassis, the structure, and large parts of the bodywork remain intact.
CO₂ Reduction: The embodied energy used in manufacturing the base vehicle continues to be utilized.
Value Preservation: Expensive and proven specialized structures, for example for crafts or logistics, do not need to be newly purchased.
Future Viability: They meet the requirements of tomorrow today, as outlined in the Clean Vehicles Directive.
By converting, you position your company as a leader in sustainability. This approach demonstrates that ecology and economy are not opposing forces but rather reinforce one another. Read how we are developing the strongest e-transporter.
The decision to convert is therefore not just a technical one, but also a strategic decision for a more sustainable future.
Build the appropriate charging infrastructure with 40 percent funding.
The best range is useless without a reliable charging infrastructure. A HEERO DTE-Sprinter can charge with up to 135 kW DC, which means that the 96 kWh net battery is charged to 80% in about 40 minutes. For the operation of an e-fleet, establishing your own, non-public charging infrastructure on the company premises is essential. This ensures availability and reduces charging costs compared to public stations.
The good news: The federal government supports not only the vehicles but also the necessary charging infrastructure with 40% of the investment costs under the BMDV guideline. The KfW also offers corresponding programs. Eligible for funding are not only the wall boxes or charging stations themselves, but also the grid connection and necessary installation work. Intelligent load management ensures that the charging processes are optimally controlled and expensive load peaks are avoided.
The planning of the charging infrastructure should take place parallel to vehicle procurement to ensure a smooth transition. This way, you ensure that your fleet is fully operational from day one.
Secure your free funding analysis now
The time until the funding deadline on August 31, 2025, is limited. Act now to future-proof your fleet and take advantage of the maximum funding. A professional conversion not only optimizes the center of gravity of your vehicle for a more stable driving experience, but also sustainably reduces your operating costs. It is the fastest and most economical way to meet the requirements of the Clean Vehicles Directive while also contributing to the circular economy.
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
Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) informs about current funding guidelines for electromobility in the commercial vehicle sector, including the retrofitting of existing vehicles.
European Union (EUR-Lex) provides access to Directive (EU) 2019/1161, known as the Clean Vehicles Directive, which sets requirements for the procurement of clean vehicles.
KfW offers funding programs for companies that want to invest in charging infrastructure for electric vehicles to support the transition to electromobility.
FAQ
How long does a Diesel-to-Electric conversion take?
A professional conversion of a standard transporter like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter typically takes between ten and fifteen business days. This includes the removal of old components, the installation of the electric powertrain, and all necessary tests and certifications.
What range can I expect from a converted transporter?
The range depends on the vehicle model and battery capacity. A Heero DTE-Sprinter achieves a practical range of up to 425 kilometers with the 96 kWh (net) battery, which is more than sufficient for most daily operational profiles in logistics and craftsmanship.
What exactly does the BMDV funding cover?
The BMDV funding guideline subsidizes 80% of the additional costs of a conversion compared to a reference diesel vehicle. Additionally, 40% of the costs for establishing the necessary, non-public charging infrastructure on the business premises are covered. The application deadline is August 31, 2025.
What is the Clean Vehicles Directive and does it affect me?
The Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD) is an EU directive that requires public authorities to adhere to fixed quotas for low-emission and -free models when procuring vehicles. If you carry out contracts for municipalities or public institutions, your vehicles must meet these criteria. A conversion ensures compliance.
What does Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) mean?
The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) includes all costs incurred over the entire lifetime of a vehicle. This includes not only acquisition but also energy, maintenance, insurance, taxes, and depreciation. For electric vehicles, the TCO is significantly lower due to reduced operational and maintenance costs.
Do I retain the warranty on my vehicle after the conversion?
The original manufacturer's warranty for the removed parts (engine, transmission) is void. Heero as the converter, however, grants a comprehensive warranty on all newly installed electric components, including battery, electric motor, and power electronics, which typically covers two years or a certain mileage.
