Make the construction yard fleet future-proof: economically switch diesel flatbeds to electric drive.
Make the construction yard fleet future-proof: economically switch diesel flatbeds to electric drive.
Rising operating costs and stricter emissions regulations are forcing municipal depots to take action. Converting the fleet to locally emission-free drives is inevitable, but purchasing new electric vehicles is expensive and often impractical. Discover an economically and ecologically superior alternative.
The topic briefly and concisely
Converting diesel flatbeds to electric drive protects investments in expensive special superstructures and is more economical than buying new ones.
Thanks to lower operating and maintenance costs as well as subsidies until 2024, the total cost of ownership (TCO) is reduced by up to 30%.
Regulatory requirements such as the Clean Vehicles Directive mandate a share of 38.5% of zero-emission light commercial vehicles in municipal fleets by 2026.
For municipalities and cities, modernising their vehicle fleets is becoming a central challenge. The EU requirements of the Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD) mandate a quota of 38.5% for clean, light commercial vehicles by 2025. At the same time, rising diesel and CO2 prices are burdening municipal budgets. Especially for municipal depot vehicles such as flatbed trucks with expensive special bodies, the question arises: Does a proven, functional fleet have to be completely replaced? With its conversion, HEERO offers a pragmatic solution that makes it possible to convert the municipal depot fleet with diesel flatbeds to locally emission-free operation without losing valuable investments.
Legal pressure and rising costs: Why the transition must take place now
The time for diesel vehicles in municipal fleets is running out. The "Clean Road Vehicles Procurement Act" implements the European Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD) into German law and forces public contracting authorities to act. For light commercial vehicles such as flatbed trucks, a procurement quota of 38.5% for "clean" vehicles applies until the end of 2025. From 2026, this share must be completely emission-free. This regulatory pressure is intensified by steadily rising operating costs for diesel vehicles. The combination of CO2 tax and volatile fuel prices makes sticking to the combustion engine an expensive undertaking. Many municipalities face the dilemma of having to write off expensive and highly specialized flatbed bodies, which often cost over €50,000, prematurely. The sustainable modernization through retrofitting offers a way out here that conserves capital and resources.
TCO analysis: How retrofitting can reduce total operating costs by up to 30%
The decision for electrification is not only an ecological one, but above all an economic one. An analysis of the total cost of ownership (TCO) shows the clear advantages of retrofitting. While purchasing a new electric transporter requires high investments, the costs of a retrofit amortize significantly faster. Studies show that electric commercial vehicles in urban and regional transport can already achieve cost advantages of up to 5 cents per kilometer today. The savings result from significantly lower operating and maintenance costs. Electric vehicles benefit from lower "fuel costs" and were exempt from truck toll until at least the end of 2025. In addition, many maintenance-intensive components of the internal combustion engine are eliminated. A detailed analysis of your fleet costs shows the specific savings potential. Retrofitting offers the following financial advantages:
Reduced energy costs compared to diesel by over 50%.
Exemption from vehicle tax for 10 years after retrofitting.
Up to 60% lower maintenance and repair costs.
Utilization of government subsidies for the retrofit.
Full value retention of your specialized vehicle body.
These factors mean that TCO parity with diesel vehicles is often achieved in as little as 4 to 6 years with retrofitted vehicles.
Technological Advantage: The HEERO D2E conversion in just 10 days
HEERO has developed a patented process to convert Mercedes-Benz Sprinters from diesel to a powerful electric drive. This process not only protects the budget, but is also a prime example of a functioning circular economy. Instead of scrapping an entire vehicle, the core – the drivetrain – is modernized and the proven chassis and body continue to be used. Our conversion preserves the full functionality and reliability of the base vehicle. With a practical range of up to 425 km and a payload designed for the typical tasks of a municipal depot, our electric flatbed trucks set new standards. The conversion process is designed to be highly efficient:
Analysis of the base vehicle and the requirement profile.
Removal of the diesel engine and all associated components.
Integration of the electric drivetrain and the high-performance battery.
Adaptation of the on-board systems and installation of the charging management.
Comprehensive quality control and safety testing (TÜV approval).
Handover of the vehicle within just 10 working days.
This fast and pragmatic solution minimizes your fleet's downtime and accelerates the urgently needed transport transition in your municipality.
Passed the practical test: How e-trolleys master the tough construction site everyday life.
Concerns among municipalities regarding the performance and range of electric commercial vehicles are often significant. However, practice shows that modern electric powertrains are more than capable of handling the challenges of daily municipal depot operations. The high and instantly available torque of an electric motor is ideal for transporting heavy loads, such as those encountered in landscaping or waste disposal. Our converted Sprinter dropside trucks prove themselves daily in cities like Stuttgart, where almost half of the vans are already electric. The range of 425 km easily covers the typical daily routes of 150 to 250 km. A decisive advantage is the noise reduction, which is highly appreciated by residents, especially during work in residential areas or in the early morning hours. Whether for winter services, green space maintenance, or material transport – an electric dropside van is a robust and reliable solution. The transition not only secures operations in future low-emission zones but also increases the acceptance of municipal services.
Intelligent charging solutions and incentives: Overcoming the last hurdles
One of the biggest hurdles in electrification is the charging infrastructure. However, municipal yards have a decisive advantage here: the vehicles return to the company premises overnight and can be charged there in a plannable manner. Cost-effective AC wallboxes with a charging capacity of up to 22 kW are ideal for this purpose and are sufficient to fully charge the fleet overnight. Intelligent load management prevents costly peak loads and protects the power grid. The investment in charging infrastructure was also heavily supported. Through programs such as the KfW funding, municipalities were able to receive grants of up to 900 euros per charging point. The conversion itself was also eligible for funding, for example through state programs that covered part of the costs. HEERO actively supports you in identifying suitable funding opportunities and guides you through the application process. This ensures that the conversion of your fleet to locally emission-free operation does not become a financial burden, but rather a profitable investment in the future.
Conclusion: Your advantage with HEERO
Converting municipal depot fleets with diesel flatbed trucks to locally emission-free operation is a strategic necessity. With the HEERO conversion, this transformation becomes an economically intelligent and sustainable decision. You protect your existing investments in expensive specialized bodies, reduce the total cost of ownership of your fleet by up to 30%, and effortlessly meet all legal requirements. At the same time, you position your municipality as a pioneer in climate protection and modern administration. HEERO is more than just a vehicle supplier; we are your partner for a pragmatic and solution-oriented transport transition. Experience the benefits for yourself and book an everyday test at no cost or request a personal consultation.
More useful links
The Bundesministerium für Verkehr und digitale Infrastruktur (BMVI) offers a factsheet on electromobility in municipalities.
The Bundesnetzagentur provides information on the topic of electromobility.
The Bundesamt für Logistik und Mobilität (BALM) provides information on the funding program Climate Protection and Sustainability in Transport (KSNI).
The BMWi (Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie) offers information on the funding program for e-utility vehicle applications and infrastructures.
A factsheet from Agora Verkehrswende addresses municipal e-fleets.
The Deutscher Städte- und Gemeindebund (DSTGB) provides documentation on electromobility for municipal utility vehicles.
Further information on utility vehicles with alternative drives can be found at the BMVI.
The Umweltbundesamt offers information on climate protection in transport.
