Convert a food truck based on the Mercedes Sprinter for profitable urban operation to electric drive.
Rising diesel costs and impending driving bans in city centers threaten your food truck business. Converting your reliable Mercedes Sprinter to a powerful electric drive not only protects your investment in the expensive specialized setup but also significantly reduces your daily operating costs. Discover the pragmatic solution for a profitable and clean future in urban areas.
The topic briefly and concisely
Protect your investment in the expensive food truck setup by retrofitting instead of buying new, and save up to 40% of the costs.
Reduce total cost of ownership (TCO) by over 50% through lower energy and maintenance costs as well as the elimination of vehicle tax.
Secure unrestricted access to all city centers and bypass impending diesel driving bans with an emission-free drive.
For operators of food trucks based on Mercedes Sprinter, the situation in German city centers is becoming increasingly critical. Municipalities like Stuttgart and Munich are already enforcing diesel bans for Euro 4 and Euro 5 vehicles, which prevents access to lucrative locations. At the same time, high fuel and maintenance prices are squeezing the margin. HEERO offers a technologically leading solution with the patented D2E conversion (Diesel-to-Electric). We convert your existing Sprinter into a powerful electric commercial vehicle within just 10 days, thus securing the value of your individual build and your economic future.
Urban Challenges: Why Diesel Power for Food Trucks is Becoming Outdated
The operation of a food truck in German cities is under increasing pressure from two sides. First, cities such as Darmstadt, Stuttgart, and Munich are tightening access restrictions through environmental zones that already affect diesel vehicles up to the Euro 5 emissions standard. A violation can result in fines of over 100 euros. This development poses a direct threat to the business model of over 7,000 mobile sales stands in Germany. Retrofitting is often the only way to maintain operations without purchasing a completely new vehicle. Thus, future security for zero-emission zones becomes a strategic necessity.
In addition to regulatory hurdles, operating costs for diesel vehicles are continuously rising. Energy costs for a diesel transporter can amount to up to 40,000 euros over a holding period of five years, while a comparable electric vehicle incurs only about 8,000 euros in electricity costs. This difference of over 30,000 euros directly impacts your profitability. Thus, switching to electric drive is not only an ecological decision but above all an economic one that secures your competitiveness in the long term.
Investment protection through retrofitting: The economically superior alternative to new purchases
A food truck is more than just a transporter; the individual and often over 50,000 Euro expensive special construction is the heart of your business. Buying a new e-transporter means a total loss of this investment. The HEERO D2E conversion follows the principle of circular economy, as we preserve the valuable substance of your vehicle and only modernize the powertrain. This approach not only conserves resources but also reduces investment costs compared to a new purchase by up to 40%. You continue to use your proven chassis with individual construction.
The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) proves the superiority of the conversion. A study by the ICCT shows that the additional costs for electrification often pay off within 4 to 6 years due to lower operating and maintenance costs. Our customers benefit from the following advantages:
Reduced maintenance costs: Up to 50% lower costs, as maintenance-intensive components such as oil filters, exhaust systems, and clutches are eliminated.
Lower energy costs: Electricity is significantly cheaper per kilometer than diesel, which reduces operating costs by up to 70%.
No charges: E-vehicles are exempt from vehicle tax for 10 years and are not subject to any CO2 charge.
Government funding: The KsNI program subsidizes the conversion with up to 80% of the additional costs compared to a diesel.
These factors make the conversion the most pragmatic and economical solution for every food truck operator who needs to plan long-term.
HEERO Technology: Uncompromising Performance for Urban Operations
Our patented conversion solution has been specifically developed for the requirements of urban and regional use. We replace the diesel engine in your Mercedes Sprinter with a highly efficient electric drive train, allowing for a proven range of up to 425 km. This covers the entire daily needs of a food truck, including arrival and departure as well as the operation of onboard devices, effortlessly. The conversion process in our factory is highly standardized and takes only 10 working days to minimize downtime for your business.
The Heero drive offers not only range but also the necessary performance for demanding city traffic. The all-electric power ensures swift and quiet acceleration, which is particularly advantageous in residential areas and during nighttime operations. Additionally, our system provides enough energy for your kitchen appliances. Learn more about our patented conversion solution from the specialist and secure a technological lead. The conversion is a clearly defined process:
Analysis and Consultation: We check your base vehicle and analyze your individual requirements profile.
Removal of the Combustion Engine: Engine, transmission, tank, and exhaust system are expertly dismantled.
Integration of the Electric Drive: Installation of the electric motor, power electronics, and battery system.
System Integration and Tests: Connection to the onboard electronics and comprehensive quality and safety checks.
TÜV Approval and Handover: We take care of the complete technical approval and registration for you.
This way, you receive a turnkey solution that is immediately ready for use and ensures the performance of your vehicle for the coming years.
Funding and TCO analysis: How the electrification of your food truck pays off
The decision to retrofit is further facilitated by attractive state funding programs. Under the guideline "Climate-friendly Commercial Vehicles and Infrastructure" (KsNI), the federal government supports companies with up to 80% of the additional investment costs for electrification. The Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) is the central contact here. This funding significantly reduces the initial investment and accelerates the payback period substantially. We actively support you in the application process to make it as easy as possible for you.
A detailed analysis of the total cost of ownership (TCO) shows the full savings potential. While the initial purchase is more expensive, you save real money over the entire lifespan of the vehicle. Already after 4 years, a retrofitted Sprinter can be cheaper than a continued diesel operation. An analysis of the TCO of your fleet is the first step towards an informed decision. The combination of grants and lower operating costs makes retrofitting an unbeatable investment in the future of your company.
Conclusion: Your advantage with HEERO – Economical, sustainable, and future-proof
Converting your food truck based on the Mercedes Sprinter to electric drive is the logical response to the challenges of modern urban operations. Not only do you avoid impending diesel bans and secure access to all city centers, but you also protect your valuable investment in the special build. With the Heero D2E technology, you benefit from a reduction in total operating costs by more than 50%, a practical range of 425 km, and a quiet, emission-free operation that scores with customers and residents.
Heero is more than just a converter; we are your strategic partner for electrification. We offer a comprehensive one-stop solution—from consulting and funding to service. Rely on a proven, patented technology and make your business fit for the future. Request your personal consultation now or book an everyday test for free to experience the benefits for yourself.
More useful links
DEKRA provides information on the conversion of trucks to electric drive.
The Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) informs about the funding program for climate protection and mobility (KSNI).
The Federal Environment Agency provides comprehensive information on environmental zones in Germany.
The German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) offers insights into the topic of circular economy.
FAQ
Is retrofitting my food truck more economical than a new purchase?
Yes, in most cases retrofitting is the more economical solution. Not only do you save the high costs of a new special build, but you also benefit from lower total cost of ownership (TCO) and attractive subsidies that quickly make the investment profitable.
What subsidies are available for retrofitting to electric drive?
The most important program is the Federal KsNI-Guideline, which subsidizes up to 80% of the additional costs compared to a diesel vehicle. We provide comprehensive advice on all available subsidies and support you with the application process.
Can the electric drive also power my kitchen appliances in the food truck?
Yes, our system is designed to reliably supply energy not only for driving but also for auxiliary consumers such as refrigeration, cooking devices, and lighting. The battery capacity is dimensioned for a full working day.
What happens to the old diesel engine?
In line with the principles of the circular economy, we ensure the professional disposal of the dismantled components. Functional parts are, if possible, supplied to the spare parts market, while materials are sent for recycling.
Do I get a warranty on the retrofitting?
Of course. HEERO provides a comprehensive warranty on all the components we install in the electric drivetrain, including the battery system. You will receive details in your personal offer.
How can I test the HEERO technology?
We offer potential customers the opportunity to experience a retrofitted HEERO Sprinter in a free everyday test. This allows you to be convinced of its performance and practical suitability yourself. Just contact us to arrange an appointment.
