Electrifying luxury minibus: Secure 80% funding before the deadline on August 31, 2025.
Already over 3,500 electric buses are securing 80% grants – when will you electrify your fleet? Time is running out: The current funding period for the retrofitting and purchase of electric vehicles ends on August 31, 2025. Act now to leave bureaucracy, rising diesel prices, and strict climate regulations behind.
The topic briefly and concisely
The application deadline for the 80% funding for electric vehicles and conversions is August 31, 2025.
Retrofitting an existing luxury minibus (DTE) reduces total operating costs (TCO) and conserves resources through circular economy.
The HEERO Tourer offers up to 400 km range and 135 kW fast charging capability as an electric minibus for full practicality.
Rising operating costs, complex environmental regulations, and the necessity to operate sustainably present fleet operators with significant challenges. Especially in the segment of passenger transporters like luxury minibuses, an economically viable and sustainable solution is in demand. Electrification is the answer, but investing in new vehicles is not always the best path. A diesel-to-electric conversion (DTE) offers a pragmatic alternative that preserves existing values. This process transforms your proven diesel vehicles into powerful electric vehicles. At the same time, it lowers the total cost of ownership (TCO), that is, the overall operating costs over the entire lifespan. With the current funding guidelines from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV), this step has become more attractive than ever before.
Your advantages at a glance: numbers, data, facts
The decision to electrify is supported by clear economic and technological incentives. The time for a strategic transition is right now.
Secure 80% grant: The current BMDV funding guideline subsidizes the additional costs for the purchase or the DTE conversion of an electric vehicle with up to 80%.
40% for charging infrastructure: In addition, the development of the necessary charging infrastructure is subsidized with up to 40% of the costs, further lowering the entry barrier.
Up to 400 km range: The Heero Tourer, a converted electric minibus based on a Sprinter for nine people, achieves a practical range of up to 400 kilometers.
Deadline August 31, 2025: These exceptionally high funding rates are limited in time; applications must be submitted by August 31, 2025.
This combination of high funding and advanced technology offers a unique opportunity to modernize your fleet.
Your 4-step plan for the e-fleet: How to make the most of the funding
A structured process is the key to success in applying for funding on time and ensuring a smooth transition. With this checklist, you can safely navigate through the process.
Conduct a needs analysis: Analyze your daily driving profiles and operational requirements. Our experts will help you determine the exact range and charging needs for your luxury minibus.
Check funding opportunities: We will conduct a free funding analysis for you. This ensures that you receive the maximum grant amount of 80% for your vehicle and 40% for the charging infrastructure.
Define a solution: Based on the analysis, decide between an efficient retrofit solution for your existing vehicles or the purchase of a new e-transporter. We will provide you with objective advice on the most economical option.
Submit your application on time: With all necessary documents and a clear strategy, we will support you in submitting your application to ensure that you meet the deadline of August 31, 2025.
The next step is to understand the financial framework that enables this transition.
Funding pots and deadlines: What you need to know now
The federal government is promoting the transport transition with significant funds distributed through the funding guideline for electromobility from the BMDV. This program aims to significantly reduce the additional costs incurred when transitioning to electromobility. The current funding period ends on August 31, 2025, which requires swift action. Up to 80% of the additional investment costs for the purchase of an electric vehicle or the conversion of a diesel vehicle are eligible for funding. At the same time, companies can apply for a grant of up to 40% for the establishment of normal and fast charging infrastructure on their own premises. This financial support is crucial to ensure the economic viability of fleet electrification.
Cost comparison: Why the conversion is worth it in the long run
The acquisition costs are only part of the equation; the true savings are reflected in the total cost of ownership (Total Cost of Ownership, TCO). An electric minibus electric benefits from significantly lower expenses for energy and maintenance. Electricity is cheaper per kilometer compared to diesel, and an electric motor has far fewer wear parts than an internal combustion engine. A study by the ICCT shows that electric trucks in Germany can already achieve TCO parity with diesel vehicles today. Especially the diesel-to-electric conversion (DTE) is economically attractive, as it preserves the value of your existing special superstructures and makes an expensive new purchase unnecessary. With a DTE solution, you are specifically investing in the drivetrain, making your proven luxury minibus fit for the future. A detailed TCO analysis is the basis for an informed decision.
Technology in detail: Range, battery, and charging power
Modern E-vehicles are designed for demanding commercial use. The Heero Tourer, a passenger transporter for up to nine passengers, is the best example of the performance capabilities of current technology. With a net battery capacity of 96 kWh (110 kWh gross), it achieves a real range of up to 400 kilometers. This makes it ideal for shuttle service, hotel transfers, or as a VIP vehicle. Thanks to a DC fast charging capability of up to 135 kW, the battery is recharged to 80% in about 40 minutes, minimizing downtime and maximizing availability. These technical specifications prove that an electric luxury minibus requires no compromises in practicality. The technology is ready for widespread use.
Sustainability as Strategy: Circular Economy instead of New Purchase
The retrofitting of an existing vehicle is an active contribution to the circular economy and a strong signal of corporate responsibility. Instead of scrapping a fully functional luxury minibus, its lifecycle is significantly extended through a DTE solution. This approach reduces the demand for primary resources and lowers CO₂ emissions that would result from producing a new vehicle by up to 75%. The German automotive industry sees the circular economy as a key lever for achieving climate goals. By choosing retrofitting, you not only save your budget but also valuable resources. You act in the spirit of a modern, circular economy and position your company as a sustainable pioneer. This strategic advantage is further strengthened by compliance with regulatory requirements.
More useful links
BMDV offers an article about the milestone of 1000 funded electric buses.
BMV publishes a press release regarding the funding call for buses.
Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs provides a final report of a companion study on electric buses in public transport.
Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs informs in a newsletter announcement about the energy transition.
Future Network Public Transport offers an article on the funding and market ramp-up of electric buses.
FAQ
How long does a Diesel-to-Electric conversion at Heero take?
A DTE conversion of a vehicle like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter to an electric luxury minibus typically takes only a few weeks. We optimize the process to keep your vehicle's downtime as short as possible and ensure a quick reintegration into your fleet.
Does Heero assist with applying for funding?
Yes, we offer a free funding analysis and actively support you throughout the entire application process. Our team of experts ensures that all documents are correctly and timely submitted by August 31, 2025, so you receive the maximum funding amount of 80%.
What is included in the Heero conversion to a luxury minibus?
Our DTE conversion is a complete solution. It includes the removal of the diesel powertrain and the installation of our highly efficient electric drive, battery packs, the onboard charger, and all necessary control systems. The vehicle is fully tested and delivered to you with road approval.
What guarantees are there for the conversion and the battery?
Heero offers comprehensive guarantees on all installed components, including the electric drive and the high-voltage battery. The specific warranty conditions are tailored to the longevity and high demands of commercial use and are transparently outlined in the offer.
Can I have my existing luxury minibus with a special conversion retrofitted?
Yes, a key advantage of our DTE solution is that existing and often expensive special conversions are fully retained. We integrate the electric drive into your existing vehicle, allowing you to protect your investments while switching to emission-free mobility.
What does Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) specifically mean for my E-minibus?
TCO takes into account all costs over the lifetime of your vehicle. For an E-minibus, the acquisition or conversion costs are initially higher, but this is more than offset by lower expenses for energy (electricity instead of diesel), significantly reduced maintenance and repair costs, tax exemptions, and subsidies. We are happy to create an individual TCO calculation for you.
