Commercial Vehicle Electric Test: With 80% Funding to a Future-Proof Fleet
Secure up to 425 km range after a Diesel-to-Electric upgrade while saving 80% of the costs? The current BMDV funding programme makes it possible. Learn how to turn bureaucracy, diesel prices, and climate requirements into a strategic advantage for your fleet.
The topic briefly and concisely
The BMDV funding subsidizes the conversion or purchase of e-commercial vehicles with 80% of the additional investment expenses; the application deadline is August 31, 2025.
The conversion of an existing diesel vehicle (Diesel-to-Electric) conserves resources, retains the value of specialised structures, and is also supported with an 80% subsidy.
Modern e-commercial vehicles offer practical ranges of up to 500 km and can be recharged during short operational breaks with DC fast charging at up to 165 kW.
Rising operating costs, looming diesel bans, and the requirements of the Clean Vehicles Directive present fleet operators with enormous challenges. However, a professional commercial vehicle electric test shows: The technological maturity has long been achieved. With ranges of up to 500 km and a subsidy of 80% on vehicles and conversions from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV), the switch is not only ecological but above all economically sensible. This article serves as a pragmatic guide to optimally use the remaining time until the funding deadline on 31 August 2025 and to set the course for a profitable, sustainable future.
Quick Facts: The Current Situation for Electric Commercial Vehicles
The time for prolonged deliberation is over, as the facts are clear. The electrification of your commercial vehicle fleet is as tangible as never before, thanks to substantial government incentives. The three most important points for your decision are:
80% funding rate: The BMDV subsidises 80% of the additional investment costs for the purchase or conversion (Diesel-to-Electric).
Deadline 31st August 2025: All applications for this attractive funding must be submitted by this cut-off date.
40% for charging infrastructure: The construction of the necessary charging infrastructure at your site is also subsidised with 40% of the costs.
Up to 500 km range: Modern e-transporters like the Heero eTransporter achieve realistic ranges of up to 500 km and are thus fully operational.
These conditions create a unique opportunity to significantly reduce operating costs while simultaneously meeting legal requirements.
Your 4-point action plan for timely promotion
In light of the upcoming deadline on 31 August 2025, a structured approach is crucial. An internal electric commercial vehicle test helps to determine the actual needs. With this checklist, you can confidently navigate through the process:
Conduct needs analysis: Analyse the daily driving performances and requirement profiles of your fleet. Vehicles like the HEERO Electric FlatBed with up to 400 km range already cover over 90% of all typical usage scenarios.
Secure funding check: Clarify the exact funding conditions and prepare the application documents. The KsNI directive from the BMDV is the central basis for this.
Define vehicle solution: Decide between a new purchase and a Diesel-to-Electric conversion (D2E). Especially with expensive special bodies, an efficient D2E conversion conserves the budget and retains the value of your vehicles.
Plan charging infrastructure: Determine the energy demand and plan the installation of DC fast charging stations (up to 165 kW charging capacity for HEERO buses) to minimise downtime.
This pragmatic approach ensures you take full advantage of the funding before the window closes.
Understanding Funding Pots: BMDV and Clean Vehicles Directive
The current funding landscape is based on two main pillars. The national "Guideline on the promotion of light and heavy commercial vehicles with alternative, climate-friendly drives" (KsNI) of the BMDV is the direct financial lever. It covers 80% of the additional costs compared to a diesel and applies both to new vehicles and conversions. This conversion, also called Diesel-to-Electric (DTE), is a core competence of Heero and preserves existing vehicle values. In parallel, the European Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD) requires public contracting authorities to meet fixed quotas for zero-emission vehicles in tenders. This creates pressure for action for municipalities and their service providers, which is economically cushioned by KsNI funding. The combination of both instruments makes the switch particularly attractive for B2B and B2G fleet operators now. A test of electric buses demonstrates practicality. The time until 31 August 2025 should therefore be strategically utilised.
Cost Comparison: Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) in Focus
The higher acquisition costs of an electric commercial vehicle are often perceived as a hurdle. However, the crucial factor is the total cost calculation, the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). This TCO analysis takes into account all costs incurred over the entire lifespan of a vehicle. Studies show that electric trucks will already achieve TCO advantages over diesel from 2025. A HEERO DTE Sprinter with a range of up to 425 km benefits from several factors:
Lower energy costs: Electricity is significantly cheaper per kilometre than diesel, often by more than 50%.
Reduced maintenance effort: The elimination of oil changes, exhaust systems and clutches reduces maintenance costs by up to 60%.
Tax advantages and toll exemption: Electric vehicles are exempt from vehicle tax and benefit from toll reductions.
Thanks to the 80% subsidy, the biggest disadvantage – acquisition costs – is almost eliminated. A detailed TCO comparison for your fleet reveals the specific savings potential. Thus, economic efficiency becomes the driving force behind electrification.
Charging infrastructure: The backbone of your e-fleet
A powerful charging infrastructure is the key to smooth operation. For commercial use, overnight depot charging is the most efficient method. All Heero vehicles, from the Electric Transporter to the bus, are designed for AC charging (alternating current) and DC fast charging (direct current). The standard DC charging power is up to 135 kW, which means that a battery with a net capacity of 96 kWh is charged to 80% in about 35 minutes. The Heero low-floor bus even charges at up to 165 kW. This charging power allows breaks during operation to be effectively used for recharging. The planning of the charging infrastructure should consider the connected load of the company building. With the 40% funding from the BMDV, this investment also becomes predictable and economically feasible. This way, the energy supply is optimally integrated into operational processes.
Sustainability through circular economy: renovation instead of new purchase
Converting existing diesel vehicles to electric drive is a prime example of practical circular economy. Instead of scrapping a fully functional vehicle with expensive special equipment, its lifecycle is extended by many years. This approach not only saves up to 70% of the CO₂ emissions that would arise from the production of a new vehicle, but also conserves valuable resources. A converted Sprinter retains its proven chassis and interior, which minimizes retraining for drivers. The battery with a net capacity of 96 kWh is designed for a long lifespan of over 3,000 charge cycles. After use in the vehicle, it can begin a second life as a stationary energy storage system. This approach, pursued by Heero with the D2E conversion, combines economic sense with real ecological responsibility and is thus far more than just a change of drive. Arrange a non-binding test drive and see for yourself.
More useful links
The Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) provides detailed information on the Climate Protection and Mobility Funding Programme (KsNI).
The Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) offers statistics on vehicle registrations.
Statista delivers statistics on the stock of trucks with alternative drives in Germany.
The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) provides information on commercial vehicles with alternative drives and climate protection in transport.
The National Centre for Charging Infrastructure offers information specifically on commercial vehicles.
The Federal Environment Agency publishes an analysis on the environmental balance of motor vehicles.
The KfW offers funding programmes for companies in the field of electromobility.
The German Energy Agency (dena) provides a dossier on the expansion of charging infrastructure for e-trucks.
The German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) provides information on the drive strategy for commercial vehicles.
FAQ
What does Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) mean for electric commercial vehicles?
The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) encompasses all costs incurred over the vehicle's lifetime. This includes acquisition, energy (electricity/diesel), maintenance, insurance, taxes, tolls, and residual value. For electric commercial vehicles, the TCO is often lower than for diesel vehicles because the operating and maintenance costs are significantly lower.
How long does it take to charge an electric transporter?
The charging time depends on the battery size and charging power. At a DC fast-charging station with 135 kW, a Heero eTransporter (96 kWh net capacity) can be charged from 10% to 80% in about 35-40 minutes. A full charge at an AC wallbox (e.g., 22 kW) takes correspondingly longer and is typically done overnight.
What is the Clean Vehicles Directive?
The Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD) is an EU directive that requires public procurers (e.g., municipalities) to meet minimum quotas for clean and emission-free vehicles when purchasing vehicles and services. It aims to strengthen the market for environmentally friendly vehicles.
What are the benefits of Diesel-to-Electric (DTE) conversion?
DTE conversion preserves the value of your existing vehicle, especially for expensive and proven special bodies. It is sustainable as it conserves resources (circular economy) and avoids CO₂ emissions from vehicle manufacturing. Additionally, it is fully eligible for funding under the KsNI program.
Is there a warranty on the converted vehicles?
Yes, Heero offers comprehensive warranties on the electric drivetrain and battery, comparable to those of new vehicles. This safeguards your investment in the long term and ensures reliable operation.
Can I have my specific vehicle model converted?
Heero specialises in the electrification of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter models. For this base, we offer proven and patented conversion solutions. Contact us for a free analysis to check the compatibility of your specific model.
