Efficiency from the first trio: Economically electrifying your logistics fleet of 3 vehicles.
Rising diesel prices, CO2 taxes, and impending driving bans are straining the finances of logistics companies. Even a small logistics fleet of 3 vehicles feels this pressure significantly. Discover a pragmatic solution that not only reduces costs but also prepares your proven vehicles for the future.
The topic briefly and concisely
Converting a logistics fleet of 3+ diesel vehicles to electric drive reduces operating costs by more than 50% through savings on energy and maintenance.
By continuing to use existing Sprinter chassis and special structures, investments are protected and the principles of a circular economy are implemented.
With a range of up to 425 km and a payload of 1,350 kg, converted transporters meet the demanding requirements of modern logistics.
For operators of commercial vehicle fleets, from municipalities to craft businesses, the switch to emissions-free drives becomes a strategic necessity. The challenge is to make this transition economically viable without operational compromises. Many are deterred by the high initial investments and long delivery times for new e-vans, especially when expensive specialized bodies are already present. Heero offers a technologically leading alternative with the patented D2E conversion (Diesel-to-Electric). We convert your existing Mercedes-Benz Sprinter to a powerful electric drive in just 10 days, thus securing the value of your fleet while you benefit from lower operating costs and full operational readiness.
Increasing cost pressure: The new realities for small logistics fleets
The operating costs for diesel fleets are rising relentlessly. Since December 1, 2023, a CO2 differentiated truck toll has additionally burdened transport costs, with a surcharge of 200 euros per tonne of CO2. For a logistics fleet of 3 transporters, these additional costs quickly add up to several thousand euros per year. At the same time, experts forecast a further increase in the CO2 charge to 55 euros per tonne by 2025, which will increase the price of diesel by around 16 cents per liter. This development makes analyzing the total operating costs an urgent task for every fleet manager. The question is no longer whether, but how to transition to electric mobility successfully.
Purchase versus Retrofit: A Strategic Decision
The acquisition of new e-transports often seems like an obvious solution but carries significant disadvantages. The investment costs are high, and already incurred expenses for expensive special constructions are lost. Moreover, the delivery times for new e-vehicles are often long, which complicates flexible fleet planning. Retrofitting existing vehicles is a superior alternative. It is not only more cost-effective than buying new but also conserves valuable resources. By continuing to use your proven vehicles, you can avoid long delivery times and accelerate the modernization of your fleet. This approach protects your invested capital and speeds up the transition to zero-emission logistics.
HEERO D2E Retrofit: A Quantum Leap through Circular Economy
Our patented D2E conversion is the answer to the challenges faced by modern fleet operators. We transform your reliable Mercedes-Benz Sprinter into a powerful electric vehicle in just 10 days. This process is based on the principle of circular economy, where the vehicle chassis and the valuable structure are preserved. This not only reduces waste and CO2 emissions that would arise from manufacturing a new vehicle but also significantly lowers your investment costs. You maintain the familiar operation and functionality of your vehicles. The benefits of this approach are clear:
Investment protection: Your expensive special structures remain fully intact and usable.
Cost efficiency: The conversion costs are significantly below the price of a comparable new e-transporter.
Quick availability: The conversion takes only 10 days, allowing your vehicles to be back in service quickly.
Proven base: You continue to utilize the robust and reliable platform of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
With this method, you can electrify your fleet without compromising on quality. This makes the technological modernization of your fleet manageable and economically viable.
Performance without compromise: Technical specifications for professional use
An electrified van by HEERO is in no way inferior to a new electric vehicle – on the contrary. Our converted Sprinters offer impressive performance data that are optimized for demanding everyday logistics. With a practical range of up to 425 km (WLTP), your vehicles can easily handle even longer daily stages. The payload of up to 1,350 kg ensures that you don't have to compromise on transport capacity. Driven by an electric motor with a peak performance of 150 kW, our vehicles guarantee confident driving dynamics even when fully loaded. This performance makes our solution ideal for a wide variety of industries, from courier, express, and parcel services to demanding operations in construction logistics. The performance proves that conversion is the future-proof choice.
TCO analysis: How retrofitting outperforms purchasing new equipment economically
The total cost of ownership (Total Cost of Ownership, TCO) is the decisive factor for the economy of a fleet. This is where the retrofit shows its full strength. The pure fuel costs of an e-transporter are around 6 euros per 100 kilometers, almost 60% below those of a diesel at about 14.40 euros. In addition, there are massive savings on maintenance, as e-drives incur up to 50% lower maintenance costs. Government subsidies and exemption from vehicle tax for 10 years further improve the balance. If we consider a logistics fleet of 3 sprinters, the retrofit costs often amortize within just 4 to 6 years due to these savings. A detailed amortization calculation quickly reveals the significant savings potential. These economic advantages make the retrofit the strategically smartest decision.
Sustainability as a competitive advantage through active circular economy
The decision to retrofit a D2E is a strong commitment to sustainability. By reusing your existing vehicles, you avoid the emission of several tons of CO2 that would occur during the production of an entirely new transporter. This approach to circular economy not only conserves valuable resources such as steel and aluminum but also enhances your corporate image. The refurbishment of commercial vehicles can enable material savings of up to 15% compared to new production. For businesses and municipalities pursuing ambitious environmental goals, this is a crucial advantage. You can achieve your sustainability goals faster while acting economically. Thus, ecological responsibility becomes a measurable economic success.
More useful links
Federal Environment Agency analyzes the environmental balance of motor vehicles.
The Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) provides information on the Climate Protection and Mobility (KSNI) funding program.
The Federal Statistical Office provides tables on the vehicle stock in Germany.
The KfW informs about the promotion of electric mobility for companies.
The German Energy Agency (dena) presents a market survey on LinkedIn concerning the IAA.
The Fraunhofer ISI offers a press release on the deployment planning of electric trucks, potentials, and costs.
Another press release from the Fraunhofer ISI addresses declining costs for emission-free trucks.
Wikipedia offers a comprehensive article on the subject of electric mobility.
The German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) provides recommendations for charging infrastructure for commercial vehicles.
Agora Verkehrswende provides a factsheet on the topic of municipal e-fleets.
FAQ
Is electrification worthwhile for a small logistics fleet of 3 vehicles?
Absolutely. Especially for smaller fleets, the savings in operating costs (energy, maintenance, taxes, tolls) quickly become noticeable. The conversion also protects your initial investment in the vehicles and their bodies and makes your fleet future-proof for low emission zones.
Which Mercedes-Benz Sprinter models can be converted?
Heero specializes in the conversion of Mercedes-Benz Sprinters. We can convert a wide range of models and configurations, including panel vans, flatbed trucks, and vehicles with complex special bodies. Contact us for an individual assessment of your vehicles.
What happens to the old diesel engine and attachments?
In the spirit of the circular economy, the removed diesel engines and components are professionally reconditioned and recycled by us. This minimizes waste and conserves resources.
Does Heero also offer charging solutions for my premises?
Yes, we see ourselves as a holistic partner. At your request, we analyze your needs and design a customized charging infrastructure for your premises, optimized for the charging times and schedules of your fleet.
How does the conversion affect the warranty of my vehicles?
Heero provides a comprehensive warranty on the electric drivetrain and all components installed by us. We would be happy to discuss the details in a personal consultation.
Can I test a converted transporter in advance?
Yes, we are confident in our technology. Therefore, we offer potential customers the opportunity to experience a converted Heero transporter live in their own operations as part of a free daily test. This allows you to see for yourself the performance and practicality.
