Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Transfer 45: Retrofit to electric drive with 80% funding until 2025 and reduce TCO
Up to 425 kilometers of range after a diesel-to-electric upgrade – without the cost of a new vehicle. Time is running out, as the current funding round for the electrification of commercial vehicles ends on August 31, 2025.
The topic briefly and concisely
The current funding round for the conversion of commercial vehicles to electric drive with an 80% subsidy ends on August 31, 2025.
The diesel-to-electric conversion (DTE) significantly reduces the total cost of ownership (TCO) through lower energy and maintenance costs.
Through the renovation in the sense of circular economy, the value of existing special structures is maintained and the CO₂ balance is improved.
Rising diesel prices, strict climate regulations, and the bureaucratic effort involved in fleet modernization pose enormous challenges for many companies. Especially for specialty vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Transfer 45, purchasing new is often uneconomical. The Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE) offers a pragmatic solution: you keep your reliable transporter, but with a future-proof electric drive. This article explains to you in four clear steps how to utilize the government funding of 80% for the conversion, meet the requirements of the Clean Vehicles Directive, and optimize the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of your fleet. Act now, as the deadline for funding applications is August 31, 2025.
Secure an 80% subsidy: The pressure for fleet operators until August 2025
Over 3,500 electric buses are already benefiting from an 80% government subsidy, but time is running out for a decision. The current funding guidelines of the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) for climate-friendly commercial vehicles will expire on August 31, 2025. At the same time, the EU's Clean Vehicles Directive significantly tightens emissions requirements for public fleets. For operators of a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Transfer 45, this means: Switching to an electric drive is not only an ecological necessity but also a strategic imperative to remain competitive. The Diesel-to-Electric conversion (DTE) is the most efficient way to achieve this, as it retains the value of the existing vehicle while also reducing operating costs. This pragmatic approach conserves both resources and budget.
Your 4-point action plan for timely promotion
The path to the promotion and conversion of your Sprinter Transfer 45 can be managed calmly and clearly with a systematic approach. We have divided the process for you into four manageable steps to reduce complexity and ensure timely application by August 31, 2025.
Vehicle and Needs Analysis: Check the condition of your existing Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Transfer 45 and define the exact requirements, including daily mileage and load capacity.
Funding Options Assessment: Have your specific options for the 80% vehicle funding and the 40% grant for charging infrastructure analyzed by experts.
TCO Economic Efficiency Calculation: Create a detailed comparison of the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), which juxtaposes the additional investment costs after funding against the savings on energy, maintenance, and taxes.
Implementation and Application Submission: Choose a certified conversion partner and submit the funding application with all necessary documents on time before the deadline.
This structured approach provides a solid foundation for your decision and maximizes your chances of success in the funding process.
Understanding funding pots: How to maximize your grants
The current funding landscape in Germany offers a unique opportunity to drastically reduce the costs of fleet electrification. The KsNI program (Climate-Friendly Commercial Vehicles and Infrastructure) of the BMDV is the central instrument. It reimburses 80% of the additional investment costs for retrofitting a vehicle like the Mercedes Sprinter Mobility compared to a new diesel. Additionally, up to 40% of the costs for establishing the necessary charging infrastructure at your company premises are subsidized. It is important that applications must be submitted by August 31, 2025 to benefit from these conditions. Funds are allocated on a first-come-first-served basis, which requires swift action. A professional funding analysis helps to tap into all potentials and correctly place the applications. Thus, what is a regulatory obligation becomes an economically attractive investment.
Technology in detail: DTE retrofit and Total Cost of Ownership
The diesel-to-electric conversion (DTE) is a technical process in which the combustion engine and fuel tank of a vehicle are replaced by an electric motor and battery system. Your Heero DTE sprinter thus achieves a practical range of up to 425 kilometers. The installed battery with 110 kWh gross and 96 kWh net capacity can be charged at a DC fast charging station with up to 135 kW in a short time. The key advantage lies in considering the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), the total operating costs over the lifetime. While the initial investment is manageable after deducting the subsidy, the ongoing costs drop significantly. Electricity is cheaper than diesel, and electric motors have significantly fewer wearing parts, which reduces maintenance costs by up to 50%. A detailed analysis for your new sprinter quickly shows the high potential for savings.
Sustainability through circular economy: renovation instead of new purchase
The conversion of your Sprinter Transfer 45 is a clear commitment to the circular economy. Instead of scrapping a fully functional vehicle with an expensive special build, its lifecycle is extended. This approach not only saves the gray energy and CO₂ emissions that would occur from producing a completely new passenger transporter, but also conserves valuable raw materials. The German automotive industry sees the circular economy as a central lever to achieve climate targets by 2050. By continuing to use the chassis and structure, you make a direct contribution to resource efficiency and position your company as a pioneer for sustainable business practices. Therefore, the decision for a DTE conversion is not only economically wise but also ecologically the smarter choice.
Meet regulatory requirements: The Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD)
The EU Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD) sets binding minimum quotas for the procurement of low-emission and zero-emission vehicles in public contracts. For the period until the end of 2025, 45% of newly procured buses must be "clean", of which half (22.5%) must be completely zero-emission. From 2026, these quotas will increase to 65% and 32.5%, respectively. A retrofitted Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Transfer 45 meets the strictest criteria as a zero-emission vehicle and ensures you access to public tenders. This directive applies not only to direct purchases but also to leasing and service contracts in the field of passenger transport. Those who modernize their fleet with a retrofitted Mercedes-Benz Bus today are well-prepared for the stricter rules from 2026 and avoid future compliance issues.
More useful links
The Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BaLM) provides detailed information on the funding program for climate protection and innovations in the field of commercial vehicles (KSNI).
The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) provides a fact sheet on the total cost of ownership of battery-electric trucks in Europe.
Strategy& (PwC) publishes a press release on the electrification of freight transport.
The National Control Center for Charging Infrastructure provides information on commercial vehicles and alternative drives.
The Federal Environmental Agency offers an analysis of the environmental balance of motor vehicles.
A press release from the Federal Environmental Agency confirms the climate advantage of electric cars.
The Federal Ministry of Economics provides a comprehensive dossier on the topic of electromobility.
The Federal Ministry for Transport offers information on commercial vehicles with alternative drives and climate protection in transport.
FAQ
How long does the conversion of a Sprinter Transfer 45 take?
The actual conversion time of a vehicle is short and usually takes just a few weeks. However, due to high demand and necessary planning, you should contact us early to complete the process before the funding deadline in August 2025.
Does the payload of my Sprinter remain after the conversion?
Modern electric drive components are weight-optimized. The exact payload after the conversion is precisely calculated during the technical planning for your specific vehicle model, with the aim always being to ensure maximum practical utility.
What charging infrastructure do I need for a converted Sprinter?
For maximum efficiency, a DC fast-charging station with at least 50 kW is recommended, which is supported by 40%. The HEERO Sprinter can charge with up to 135 kW. For overnight charging, an AC wallbox may suffice.
Is the diesel-to-electric conversion more economical than a new purchase?
Yes, especially for vehicles with expensive special bodies like the Sprinter Transfer 45. The conversion is significantly cheaper than a comparable new electric vehicle thanks to the 80% funding and protects your original investment in the structure.
What happens if I miss the funding deadline on August 31, 2025?
Whether and in what form new funding programs will be available after the current KsNI directive expires is currently unclear. It is likely that future subsidies will have lower quotas, which is why action before the deadline is urgently recommended.
Do I also receive a warranty on the converted drive?
Yes, you receive a comprehensive warranty on all drivetrain components installed by HEERO, including the electric motor and battery system. This secures your investment in the long term.
