Electrify Mercedes-Benz bus fleet: secure 80% funding by August 31, 2025
Already 3,500 electric buses have secured an 80% grant – when will you electrify your fleet? Time is running out, as the current funding period for the conversion and acquisition of electric buses ends on August 31, 2025. Act now to stay one step ahead of rising diesel prices and strict EU regulations.
The topic briefly and concisely
The BMDV funding guideline subsidizes the conversion or the new purchase of a Mercedes-Benz bus with 80% of the additional costs; applications must be submitted by August 31, 2025.
Retrofitting an existing diesel bus (DTE) maintains the fleet's value, saves resources, and is more economical than purchasing a new one, thanks to subsidies.
The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of an e-bus is up to 40% lower in the long term compared to a diesel counterpart, due to lower maintenance and energy costs.
Bus fleet operators face a double challenge: soaring operating costs and the need to comply with the strict requirements of the Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD). Electrification is the answer, but the investment in new vehicles often seems insurmountable. A diesel-to-electric conversion (DTE) for your proven Mercedes-Benz bus is the pragmatic solution. It not only preserves your budget but also maintains the value of your existing fleet. With the current BMDV funding guidelines, you can save up to 80% of costs and set the course for future-proof passenger transport.
The countdown is on: Why you need to act by August 31, 2025
The current funding guideline of the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) is a crucial lever for your fleet modernization. It subsidizes the conversion of your Mercedes-Benz bus and the purchase of new vehicles by up to 80 percent of the additional investment costs. However, applications must be submitted by August 31, 2025. This deadline marks a unique opportunity to sustainably reduce the total operating costs (Total Cost of Ownership, TCO) of your fleet. The TCO includes all costs over the lifetime of a vehicle, not just the purchase price. The time for a strategic decision is now to benefit from the maximum subsidies.
This deadline is not just an opportunity but also a response to the growing regulatory pressure. The foundations for the future of public transport are being laid today.
Legal framework: The Clean Vehicles Directive as a driver of electrification
The Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD), implemented in Germany through the Clean Vehicles Procurement Act (SaubFahrzeugBeschG), forces public contractors to take action. For buses, in the first reference period until the end of 2025, a minimum quota of 45 percent for "clean" vehicles in new procurements applies. At least half of this, i.e., 22.5 percent, must be completely emission-free. From 2026, these quotas increase to 65 percent and 32.5 percent, respectively. These requirements make the switch to electric drives unavoidable for every operator of a Mercedes-Benz Electric Bus.
The directive promotes fair competition and creates a market for emission-free vehicles. HEERO offers you a practical solution for this. We convert your existing Mercedes-Benz bus to make it fit for the future. This approach to the circular economy conserves valuable resources and your budget. Compliance with the quotas thus becomes not only an obligation but an economic opportunity.
Your 4-point checklist for successful fleet electrification
The transition to an electric bus fleet requires a clear strategy. With this plan, you will navigate the process confidently:
Needs analysis and route assessment: Analyze the specific energy requirements of your routes. Our experts assess whether the Heero Tourer with up to 400 km or the rear low-floor bus with up to 300 km range is the optimal solution for you.
Calculate Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): We create a detailed TCO analysis. It compares the lifecycle costs of your current diesel bus with a converted electric bus. Studies show that e-buses are 5-10% cheaper in the long run.
Subsidy check and application submission: Our subsidy experts identify all relevant funds, such as the BMDV bus subsidy. We actively support you in submitting the application on time by August 31, 2025, to secure the 80% grant.
Plan and implement charging infrastructure: A Heero mid-low-floor bus charges with up to 165 kW DC. We plan the appropriate charging infrastructure with you, which is also funded at 40%, and ensure seamless integration into your operations.
This structured approach minimizes risks and maximizes the economic and ecological success of your project.
Economics in Focus: The Total Cost of Ownership in Comparison
The higher initial costs of an electric bus are often perceived as a hurdle. However, a detailed analysis of the TCO shows a different picture. The operating costs for an e-bus are significantly lower. Maintenance costs can decrease by up to 40% compared to a diesel bus, as components like exhaust systems are eliminated and brakes are preserved through recuperation. Additionally, there are significantly lower and more stable energy costs compared to the volatile diesel price.
An example calculation illustrates the potential:
Fuel vs. Electricity: A diesel bus consumes about 35 liters per 100 km, which corresponds to costs of €59.50 at €1.70/l. A comparable electric minibus requires about 24 kWh, which costs only €7.20 at €0.30/kWh.
Maintenance and Repair: Over a lifespan of 12 years, the savings on maintenance and repairs can exceed €100,000.
CO₂ Costs: Future CO₂ taxes on fossil fuels will further widen the cost gap in favor of the e-bus.
The current subsidy of 80% on the additional acquisition costs already makes the switch to an electric Mercedes-Benz bus the economically superior choice today.
Technology that convinces: Range and charging power for everyday life
Practicality is crucial for you as an operator. Our electrified Mercedes-Benz bus models are designed for the real requirements of line and travel traffic. The HEERO Tourer, a passenger transporter for nine passengers, achieves a range of up to 400 km. Our low-floor buses can achieve up to 300 km with a single charge. These values are based on official data sheets (as of 07/2025) and ensure reliable daily performance.
The charging performance is equally impressive. All models charge standardly with up to 135 kW direct current (DC). The mid-low-floor bus sets an even higher standard with up to 165 kW DC. This means the battery is recharged to about 80 percent in approximately 30 minutes. The installed batteries offer, depending on the model, a gross capacity of 110 kWh or 137 kWh. This technological superiority ensures you maximum availability and flexibility in daily use.
Your advantage with HEERO: Renovation instead of new purchase as a commandment of sustainability
The decision to convert a Diesel-to-Electric (DTE) system is a clear commitment to the circular economy. Rather than scrapping a fully functional Mercedes-Benz bus, we extend its lifecycle by many years. This approach saves up to 80% of the CO₂ emissions that would occur during the production of a new vehicle. This not only protects your initial investment but also conserves valuable raw materials like steel and aluminum.
Our patented DTE technology is specifically designed for vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Transfer 45. You receive a vehicle you know and trust, equipped with a future-proof and quiet drive. For municipalities and companies that take sustainability seriously, the conversion is the smartest and most resource-saving form of modernization. This way, your path to e-mobility becomes a benefit for the environment and your balance sheet.
More useful links
Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) provides information on the funding program for climate protection and sustainability in transport (KSNI).
Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) provides statistics on new vehicle registrations in Germany.
Federal Environment Agency releases a press release confirming the climate benefit of electric cars.
Association of German Transport Companies (VDV) offers information on the topic of electromobility in public transportation.
National Platform Future of Mobility (NPM) provides a report on charging infrastructure for battery electric trucks.
Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV) publishes an article on the topic of electromobility in Germany.
Zugerland Transport Companies (ZVB) provides technical data on the eCitaro electric bus.
German Energy Agency (dena) informs about how electromobility represents an opportunity for the electricity grids.
FAQ
What does Diesel-to-Electric Conversion (DTE) mean?
DTE refers to the process where the diesel engine and associated components of an existing vehicle, such as a Mercedes-Benz bus, are removed and replaced by a fully electric drive system (electric motor, battery, power electronics). The vehicle retains its chassis and body.
How long does a DTE conversion take at Heero?
The actual conversion process is highly efficient and typically only takes a few weeks. Including all preparatory and follow-up activities, you can expect a manageable downtime, which we coordinate precisely with you in advance to minimally disrupt your operations.
What guarantees are there on the retrofitted components?
Heero offers comprehensive guarantees on all newly installed electric components, including the battery and drive system. The exact warranty conditions meet the highest industry standards and are transparently presented in our offer.
Is the funding really limited until August 31, 2025?
Yes, according to the current directive on funding alternative drives for buses in passenger transport, project outlines for the current funding period must be submitted by August 31, 2025. It is unclear whether and in what form new programs will be established thereafter.
What is the difference between battery gross and net capacity?
Gross capacity is the total amount of energy physically storable in the battery. Net capacity is the actual usable amount of energy. A buffer between gross and net protects the battery, slows aging, and ensures a long lifespan, which is why we specify, for example, 110 kWh gross and 96 kWh net for our buses.
Does Heero also support planning the charging infrastructure?
Yes, we offer a comprehensive solution. Our experts analyze your location and operations to plan the optimal charging infrastructure – from individual wall boxes to fast charging parks with load management. The planning and installation are also subsidized by up to 40%.
