Make municipal vans for environmental zones future-proof: The economic conversion to electric drive
Increasing environmental regulations and the threat of diesel driving bans pose enormous challenges for municipal fleets. A strategic conversion of your proven flatbed trucks and special vehicles ensures their operational readiness and protects your budget.
The topic briefly and concisely
Retrofitting diesel flatbed trucks to electric drive protects expensive special equipment and is up to 50% cheaper than buying new.
Electrified commercial vehicles reduce total operating costs (TCO) by up to 60% through lower energy and maintenance costs.
With a range of up to 425 km, converted Sprinters are fully practical for the demanding municipal everyday life.
In over 36 German cities, environmental zones already regulate access today, and the introduction of complete zero-emission zones (Zero-Emission-Zones) is only a matter of time. For municipal operations, this represents an acute threat to the value and usability of their often expensive diesel-special vehicles. The blanket acquisition of a complete electric fleet is associated with extreme costs and long delivery times. Heero offers you a pragmatic and economically superior solution with the patented D2E conversion (Diesel-to-Electric). We make your municipal utility vehicles, such as flatbed trucks, future-proof for environmental zones with electric drive and protect your investments.
The challenge: Expanding environmental zones and impending driving bans
The number of environmental zones in Germany and Europe is steadily increasing, and the regulations are becoming increasingly strict. Currently, only vehicles with a green badge are allowed in all 36 German zones, which already excludes older diesel commercial vehicles. Some cities, such as Hamburg, have already introduced location-based diesel driving bans, and the EU Regulation (EU) 2019/631 provides for a 100% reduction in CO2 emissions for new vehicles by 2035, which means the end for new combustion engines. For municipal fleets, whose pick-up trucks and special vehicles often have a lifespan of over 10 years, this poses massive planning uncertainty. The investment in a pure diesel fleet is no longer feasible under these circumstances. The future security for zero-emission zones requires an immediate rethink. This development forces fleet managers to explore alternatives that go beyond mere new purchases.
Investment protection through retrofitting: The smart alternative to new purchases
A municipal flatbed truck is often more than just a transporter; it is a work platform with expensive specialized builds that can cost six-figure amounts. A new purchase of an electric vehicle means completely depreciating these valuable builds. Our D2E conversion offers the solution: we retain the tried-and-true base vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and only swap out the powertrain. This approach to circular economy not only conserves valuable resources but especially your budget. The energy required to build an entirely new vehicle is sufficient to drive a converted vehicle around 150,000 km. By continuing to use the chassis and body, you can reduce the new investment by up to 50%. Find out how to achieve your sustainability goals through conversion. This secures the value of your fleet and prepares it for the next 10-15 years.
Proven performance: range and performance for everyday municipal life
Concerns about electric commercial vehicles often relate to range and performance. The HEERO technology dispels these reservations with hard facts. Our retrofitted Sprinters achieve a range of up to 425 km, making them perfectly suited for typical daily operations in municipal works, green area maintenance, or urban cleaning. The usage profile of municipal vehicles with clearly defined routes and central depots for overnight charging is ideal for electromobility. The electric drive train also offers higher torque, which is particularly beneficial for trips with full loads. The advantages at a glance:
Practical range: Enough energy for a full day's work without interim charging.
Full payload: The conversion is weight-neutral or even increases payload capacity.
Superior driving dynamics: Quiet and powerful from the first meter.
Reliability: Based on the millions of proven Mercedes-Benz Sprinters.
These performance data make the HEERO electric flatbed truck a no-compromise work tool. The switch to electric drive means no restrictions, but rather a modernization of your operational capabilities.
Focus on Economic Efficiency: Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and Subsidies
Although the initial investment in electrification is higher, it pays off many times over the holding period. An analysis of the total cost of ownership (Total Cost of Ownership, TCO) shows the clear savings potential. Studies have shown that electric trucks are already cheaper than comparable diesel models after 4 to 6 years, depending on the usage profile. The cost advantages consist of several factors:
Lower energy costs: Electricity is significantly cheaper per kilometer than diesel.
Reduced maintenance: An electric drive has about 90% fewer moving parts than a combustion engine, which drastically reduces maintenance effort.
Tax benefits: Electric vehicles are exempt from truck tolls.
Government grants: Programs like KsNI have subsidized the purchase with up to 80% of the additional costs and demonstrated high demand.
A retrofitted vehicle can reduce operating costs by up to 60%. Let us create your individual TCO analysis for your fleet. This transforms ecological necessity into an economic opportunity.
Conclusion: Your advantage with HEERO
The transition to emission-free drives is inevitable for municipalities. Heero offers you the technologically leading and most economically intelligent solution to future-proof your municipal utility vehicles, such as flatbed trucks, for electric drive in environmental zones. You protect your investments, sustainably reduce operating costs, and meet upcoming environmental regulations with a proven vehicle base. Our D2E conversion is more than just a technical intervention; it is a strategic step towards a clean and economical future for your fleet. As an innovative partner, we accompany you from analysis to implementation. Experience the benefits yourself and actively shape the mobility transition. Request your personal consultation now or book an everyday test free of charge.
More useful links
The Federal Environment Agency provides comprehensive information on environmental zones in Germany, fine dust, and air pollutants.
An interactive GIS application for displaying environmental zones can be found at the Federal Environment Agency.
The Federal Ministry for the Environment informs about environmental zones and the environmental badge.
A detailed document on environmental zones is available on the website of the German Bundestag.
The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport provides the funding guideline for charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
Information on funding opportunities for sustainable mobility is offered by the KfW.
The Federal Ministry for Transport informs about electromobility in Germany.
Another relevant document from the German Bundestag addresses topics such as electromobility and related areas.
FAQ
How long does the conversion of a diesel flatbed truck to electric drive take?
The Heero D2E conversion process is highly standardized and usually takes only about 10 working days. This way, we minimize your vehicle's downtime and ensure quick reintegration into your fleet.
Does the payload of my vehicle remain intact after the conversion?
Yes, the conversion is designed to maintain the original payload. Depending on the vehicle configuration, the elimination of heavy diesel components may even allow a slight increase in payload while maintaining the same permissible gross weight.
What warranty is there for the conversion and the battery?
Heero offers comprehensive warranty services on all installed electric components, including the battery system. The exact warranty conditions are tailored to longevity and high demands in commercial use and will be explained to you in detail during the consultation.
Can every Mercedes-Benz Sprinter be converted?
We specialize in converting Mercedes-Benz Sprinter models as they offer an excellent and durable basis for commercial use. We are happy to check the compatibility of your specific vehicles and their configurations. Contact us for a free analysis.
Does Heero also provide charging solutions for our municipal depot?
Yes, we see ourselves as a holistic solution partner. In addition to vehicle conversion, we also advise you on the planning and implementation of suitable charging infrastructure for your operational depot, ensuring smooth and efficient operation of your electric fleet.
How can I test the performance of a converted vehicle?
We are confident in our technology and offer potential customers the opportunity to test our vehicles in real everyday work. Simply book a 'Daily Test Free of Charge' and experience the performance and practicality yourself.
