Electric flatbed: Secure 80% funding now and halve fleet costs by 2030
Did you know that over 3,500 companies are already utilizing grants for e-commercial vehicles? Given rising diesel prices, stricter climate regulations, and a fixed funding period, now is the critical moment to electrify your truck fleet.
The topic briefly and concisely
The application deadline for the 80% funding for an electric flatbed (new or retrofit) and 40% for charging infrastructure ends on August 31, 2025.
A conversion reduces total operating costs (TCO) by up to 50% through savings in energy, maintenance, and taxes.
The Diesel-to-Electric (DTE) conversion conserves resources and secures the value of existing vehicles with expensive specialized builds.
The electrification of commercial vehicles is no longer a distant dream, but an economic necessity. For companies and municipalities that rely on flatbed trucks, volatile fuel costs and the CO₂ pricing pose a calculable risk. At the same time, the EU's Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD) tightens the requirements for public fleets. Switching to an electric flatbed provides a direct solution to master these challenges. With the current funding guideline from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV), you reduce investment costs by 80% and sustainably lower overall operating costs (Total Cost of Ownership). This article shows you in four clear steps how to apply for funding in a timely manner and future-proof your fleet.
Your 4-point checklist for timely electrification
Switching to an electric flatbed is a strategic process that, with proper planning, brings significant benefits. The current subsidy framework with an 80% subsidy for purchase or conversion expires on August 31, 2025. Act now to future-proof your fleet. This checklist will guide you safely through the process.
Conduct a needs analysis: Record the daily mileage and the requirements profile of your current flatbed vehicles. Our HEERO e-flatbed trucks (single & double cab) offer a proven solution for most applications with a range of up to 400 km.
Compare total costs (TCO): Don't just look at the purchase price. An analysis of the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) shows that an electric flatbed reduces operating costs by up to 50% due to lower energy, maintenance, and tax burdens.
Apply for funding: Time is of the essence. The application under the KsNI directive must be submitted by August 31, 2025, to receive 80% of the additional costs for the vehicle and 40% for the charging infrastructure.
Plan charging infrastructure: A HEERO flatbed truck charges with up to 135 kW DC in approximately 45 minutes to 80%. We analyze your location and plan the precisely suitable charging infrastructure for your depot.
This structured approach not only ensures maximum subsidies but also lays the foundation for an economically and ecologically sustainable fleet.
Understanding funding pots: How to maximize your grants
The current funding landscape for electric commercial vehicles is a clear political signal for a transportation transition. The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) specifically supports companies and municipalities through the “Climate-Friendly Commercial Vehicles and Infrastructure” (KsNI) directive. The core of the funding is a grant of 80% on the additional investment costs compared to a diesel counterpart. This applies both to the purchase of a new Heero flatbed truck and to a Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE). The DTE solution is particularly attractive for companies with expensive special equipment, as the proven vehicle is retained. Additionally, the establishment of the necessary charging infrastructure is subsidized by up to 40% of the expenses. The most important point is the application deadline on August 31, 2025. All applications submitted after this date will no longer benefit from these advantageous conditions. The planning security and the high funding volume make now the ideal time for a decision. Thus, the transition transforms from a mere cost issue into a strategic investment in the future of your company.
TCO analysis: Why the electric platform is cheaper in the long run
The higher purchase costs of an electric vehicle are often perceived as a hurdle. However, a closer examination of the total cost of ownership (TCO) over a holding period of five years clearly disproves this prejudice. The TCO analysis takes into account all incurred costs and makes the economic advantage of the electric flatbed transparent.
Energy costs: Electricity is significantly cheaper per kilometer than diesel. With an annual mileage of 30,000 km, savings of over 2,000 euros per vehicle can often be achieved.
Maintenance and repair: An electric motor has up to 90% fewer moving parts than a combustion engine. This reduces maintenance effort and costs for wear parts such as exhaust, clutch, or oil filter drastically.
Taxes and fees: Electric commercial vehicles are exempt from vehicle tax for ten years. Additionally, the rising CO₂ levy that continuously increases the price of diesel fuel is waived.
Residual value: Due to the longevity of the components and the increasing demand, a more stable residual value is forecasted for electric commercial vehicles.
In particular, retrofitting existing vehicles with DTE preserves the budget, as no entirely new vehicle needs to be purchased. The TCO consideration proves that the decision for an electric flatbed is not only ecologically sound but also economically wise.
Technology and Sustainability: More than just a change of drive
Modern electric flatbed trucks are technologically advanced and designed for tough everyday work. The HEERO eFlatbed truck is based on the proven Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and combines its robustness with a powerful electric drive. With a battery capacity of 110 kWh gross (96 kWh net), a practical range of up to 400 kilometers is achieved. The DC fast charging power of up to 135 kW ensures minimal downtime. In just 45 minutes, the battery is recharged to 80%. The real progress, however, lies in the circular economy concept that we pursue with our Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE). Instead of scrapping a fully functional vehicle with a special body, we only replace the drivetrain. This approach conserves valuable resources, avoids the CO₂ emissions of new production, and extends the lifespan of your investment by many years. This combination of the latest technology and practiced sustainability makes the transition to a HEERO electric flatbed a holistic solution.
Act in compliance with the law: The Clean Vehicles Directive as a driver
Since August 2021, the EU's Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD) sets clear requirements for public procurement. This directive, implemented in Germany through the Clean Vehicles Procurement Act (SaubFahrzeugBeschG), requires municipalities and public clients to adhere to fixed quotas for low-emission and zero-emission vehicles. For light commercial vehicles such as flatbed trucks, there is a quota of 38.5% for 'clean' vehicles until the end of 2025. From 2026, this requirement will be tightened, demanding a share of 38.5% completely zero-emission vehicles. This regulation creates a pressure to act that goes far beyond ecological objectives. Those who do not switch to an electric municipal flatbed risk not being considered in future tenders or failing to meet legal requirements. Therefore, retrofitting or acquiring an electric flatbed is also a measure to secure competitiveness and fulfill legal obligations. The current funding is the ideal opportunity to make this transformation financially viable.
Start your funding analysis: 3 steps to 80% funding
Answer three short questions about your fleet and usage profile. You will promptly receive your personal subsidy roadmap and all the necessary information to secure the 80% funding for your new electric flatbed in a timely manner. Take advantage of the opportunity before the deadline on August 31, 2025.
Button: "For the free analysis"
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More useful links
The Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) provides information on the funding program for climate protection and sustainability in transport (KSNI).
The Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) publishes the annual balance of the vehicle stock in Germany.
The Fraunhofer ISI releases a press release about declining costs for emission-free trucks.
The Federal Environment Agency offers an analysis of the environmental balance of motor vehicles.
The KfW Bank Group informs about the promotion of electric mobility for companies.
The German Energy Agency (dena) provides information on the expansion of charging infrastructure for electric trucks, challenges and solutions.
The Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) presents a thematic page on electric mobility.
The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) provides a dossier on the topic of electric mobility.
The BMWK informs about the funding program for electric commercial vehicle applications and infrastructures.
FAQ
By when must the funding application for my electric flatbed be submitted?
The application for funding under the KsNI directive must necessarily be received by the Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) by August 31, 2025. We support you in submitting on time.
What does Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE) mean?
DTE is the conversion of an existing diesel vehicle to a purely electric drive. This involves removing the diesel engine, transmission, and exhaust system and replacing them with an electric motor, batteries, and control electronics. Your vehicle body remains completely intact.
What is the Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD)?
The CVD is an EU directive that requires public contracting authorities to procure clean and emission-free vehicles. It sets fixed minimum quotas that apply until 2025 and again from 2026, increasing the pressure to electrify municipal vehicle fleets.
How long does it take to charge an electric flatbed?
At a DC fast charging station with a charging power of 135 kW, as standard for the HEERO e-flatbed truck, charging from 20% to 80% battery capacity takes about 45 minutes. A full charge at an AC wallbox (e.g., overnight) takes about 8-10 hours.
Are the batteries in HEERO vehicles sustainable?
We use modern lithium iron phosphate batteries (LFP) that do not require cobalt and offer a longer lifespan as well as more safety. After their use in the vehicle, they can continue to be used as stationary storage, corresponding to the principle of a circular economy.
Does HEERO also offer advice on charging infrastructure?
Yes, our service includes a complete analysis of your needs. We plan the optimal charging infrastructure for your business premises, consider the 40% funding, and ensure seamless integration into your operational processes.
