Electric commercial vehicles: Achieve the TCO transition with 80% funding until August 31, 2025.
Up to 425 kilometers of range after a diesel-to-electric upgrade – all without the high costs of a new vehicle. The time to switch your fleet to electric commercial vehicles is now, as the clock is ticking for attractive incentives.
The topic briefly and concisely
The funding for electric commercial vehicles (80%) and charging infrastructure (40%) ends on August 31, 2025, and requires urgent action.
The conversion from diesel to electric (DTE) saves budgets by preserving expensive special attachments and promotes the circular economy.
The total cost of ownership (TCO) of electric commercial vehicles is up to 33% lower than that of diesel vehicles due to lower energy and maintenance costs.
Rising diesel prices, stricter environmental regulations due to the Clean Vehicles Directive, and increasing pressure for CO₂ reduction present fleet managers with significant challenges. Many hesitate due to the complexity and the seemingly high costs. However, electrification is no longer a question of ‘if’ but of ‘how’. With the right strategy, switching to electric commercial vehicles can become a crucial competitive advantage. This guide shows you how to set the course for a profitable and future-proof fleet through government grants of up to 80% and a smart analysis of the total cost of ownership. The deadline for applications ends on August 31, 2025 – pragmatic action is now required.
The pressure to act is rising: Why now is the right time for electric commercial vehicles
The regulatory framework for commercial fleets is becoming stricter. The EU Clean Vehicles Directive, implemented by the Clean Vehicles Procurement Act, already prescribes clear quotas today. By the end of 2025, 38.5% of light commercial vehicles must be 'clean' in public tenders. Starting in 2026, this quota will apply to completely emissions-free vehicles. At the same time, volatile diesel prices and rising CO₂ taxes are burdening the cost calculations of every company. These factors make planning security a central challenge for fleet operators. Therefore, the transition to electric commercial vehicles is not only an ecological decision but also an imperative economic one. A clearly defined action plan is essential to successfully and timely manage this transformation.
Your 4-point action plan for timely electrification
A structured approach is the key to making the most of the deadline on August 31, 2025. These four steps will guide you safely to your goal:
Conduct a needs analysis: Analyze the daily driving distances and load profiles of your fleet. Vehicles such as the Heero eTransporter with up to 500 kilometers range cover most operational scenarios.
Start the subsidy check: Check your eligibility for current subsidies. The funding guidelines of the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) provide for up to 80% for the acquisition of vehicles or efficient retrofit solutions.
Carry out solution evaluation: Compare purchasing a new vehicle with a Diesel-to-Electric (DTE) conversion. A DTE conversion protects your investments in expensive special equipment and is often the faster solution.
Plan charging infrastructure: Determine the need for charging capacity for your depot. The construction of the necessary infrastructure is subsidized with up to 40% of the investment costs.
The decision between conversion and new purchase largely depends on the analysis of the total operating costs.
The most cost-effective solution: Total Cost of Ownership in comparison
The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), also known as the total operating costs, is the decisive factor for the profitability of your fleet. It includes not only the acquisition but also energy, maintenance, taxes, and insurance. A study by Transport & Environment shows: electric vans have a clear advantage here. The operating costs are only around ten cents per kilometer, while a comparable diesel costs 15 cents – a savings of over 30 percent. Reduced maintenance efforts due to fewer moving parts and the tax exemption from vehicle tax that is valid until 2030 further lower costs. The higher acquisition costs for an electric commercial vehicle often pay off within four to six years. A detailed analysis of your TCO benefits is the first step towards cost reduction. But not only costs, the method of electrification also offers specific advantages.
Circular Economy in Practice: The Benefits of Diesel-to-Electric Conversion
Why replace a proven vehicle when only the drive system is outdated? The Diesel-to-Electric Conversion (DTE) is a core principle of the circular economy. Instead of scrapping a complete vehicle, the existing Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is used as a base and receives a new electric drive train. This approach conserves valuable resources and primarily protects your investments in expensive and complex special builds, which often have a value of several tens of thousands of euros. A Sprinter converted to DTE achieves a practical range of up to 425 kilometers. This approach reduces material and resource consumption compared to producing an entirely new vehicle by over 70 percent. Learn more about our intelligent conversions. For fleets looking to renew, the performance of modern new vehicles is the focus.
Performance without compromise: The HEERO electric utility vehicles in detail
If a new vehicle is the strategically right choice, HEERO offers a fleet designed for maximum efficiency and range. All models are based on the proven Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and are optimized for demanding commercial uses. Here is an overview of the key figures:
HEERO eTransporter: Up to 500 km range for maximum flexibility in logistics.
HEERO ePritschenwagen (EK & DoKa): Up to 400 km range for crafts and municipalities.
HEERO Tourer (Minibus 9 Pax): Up to 400 km range with a 110 kWh battery (96 kWh net).
HEERO Mid-Low-Floor Bus: Up to 300 km range, equipped with a 137 kWh battery (115 kWh net) for passenger transport.
These performance data ensure that your fleet reliably fulfills daily tasks. Secure your funding for e-buses now. However, the success of the transition is inseparably linked to the appropriate charging infrastructure.
The foundation of the e-fleet: properly planning and promoting charging infrastructure
An efficient charging infrastructure is the backbone of your electrified fleet and is supported with 40% of the costs. The Heero vehicles are designed for high charging capacities. The standard for our transporters is 135 kW DC fast charging. The Heero medium-floor bus can even charge with up to 165 kW. In practice, this means: In just 30 minutes of charging time, a range of up to 80% is restored. For most fleets, nightly depot charging is the most efficient method to start each workday with full battery capacity. Careful planning ensures that the charging power is tailored to your individual needs and peak loads are avoided. With the right strategy and professional support, the path to an e-fleet is clear.
More useful links
The German Bundestag offers a brief message addressing current political issues.
The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) provides the official funding guideline for charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
The National Control Center for Charging Infrastructure informs about current funding programs for charging infrastructure and electromobility.
Bavaria Innovativ clearly explains funding programs for the establishment of company-owned charging infrastructures for electric trucks.
The Traffic Roundup offers a comprehensive overview and practical tips on funding opportunities for green transport in 2025.
Continental highlights the advantages and developments in the area of electric commercial vehicles in a blog post.
Enercity informs about the promotion of electromobility, including relevant programs and requirements.
Table.Media presents an article about a report that assesses the funding measures of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) for electric trucks as successful.
FAQ
What is the difference between a DTE conversion and a new purchase?
In the DTE conversion (Diesel-to-Electric), the combustion engine is removed from your existing vehicle and replaced with an electric drive system. The advantage is that you retain your proven vehicle, including expensive special constructions. A new purchase offers you a completely new vehicle with the latest chassis and battery technology.
Is the range of HEERO vehicles really sufficient for our operation?
With ranges of up to 500 kilometers and DC fast charging options that restore up to 80% capacity in 30 minutes, our vehicles easily cover the typical daily workload of logistics, crafts, and municipal operations. We are happy to analyze your individual driving profile in a free consultation.
How long does a DTE conversion take?
A professional DTE conversion is a standardized process. Typically, your vehicle is ready for operation again within a few weeks, which is often faster than the current delivery times for new specialized vehicles.
What warranties are there on converted or new vehicles?
All HEERO vehicles, whether new or converted, are delivered with comprehensive warranties on the drivetrain and battery components. This secures your investment in the long term and ensures worry-free operation.
What happens when the funding application deadline expires on August 31, 2025?
After the deadline, it is uncertain whether and to what extent new funding programs will be established. The current conditions with up to 80% subsidy are exceptionally attractive. It is therefore advisable to take advantage of the opportunity and submit applications in good time to secure maximum financial relief.
Does HEERO also offer support for the application process?
Yes, our expert team supports you throughout the entire process - from the initial analysis to the selection of the right solution, to the compilation of the necessary documents for the funding application. Our goal is to make the process as simple and efficient as possible for you.
