Gradually electrifying a large diesel fleet: Your strategic partner for the transition by 2025
Up to 425 km range after a diesel-to-electric upgrade – without the cost of a new vehicle. The time for electrifying your fleet is now, as the current funding period ends on August 31, 2025. A strategic partner is essential to make this transition pragmatic and economically successful.
The topic briefly and concisely
The application deadline for the 80% funding for electric commercial vehicles and DTE conversions by the BMDV ends on August 31, 2025.
The Diesel-to-Electric (DTE) conversion retains existing special structures and reduces investment costs through the principle of circular economy.
A partnership with a specialist is essential to maximize funding, optimize the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), and strategically plan electrification.
The electrification of large vehicle fleets is not a question of "if," but rather "how." Rising diesel prices, strict CO₂ regulations through the EU's Clean Vehicles Directive, and the growing pressure to decarbonize present fleet managers with complex challenges. At the same time, the federal government, through the BMDV funding guideline, offers a unique opportunity: up to 80% of the costs for retrofitting or purchasing electric utility vehicles and 40% for charging infrastructure are subsidized. However, the deadline for these applications ends on August 31, 2025. A partnership with a specialist for the gradual electrification of a large diesel fleet is the key to mastering bureaucracy, optimizing funding, and setting the course for future-proof, cost-efficient logistics.
Why the time to switch is pressing now: Regulatory framework and deadlines
The regulatory pressure on operators of diesel fleets is steadily increasing. The European Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD), implemented through the German Clean Vehicles Procurement Act, already requires fixed quotas for low-emission vehicles in public contracts. In the first reference period until the end of 2025, 45% of newly procured buses must be "clean." From 2026 onwards, these requirements will become stricter. At the same time, the crucial funding guideline for electromobility from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) is expiring. Applications for the 80% funding must be submitted by August 31, 2025. Those who do not act now risk not only losing significant subsidies but also facing future competitive disadvantages. Therefore, strategic planning for the next ten years is essential. These regulatory milestones make a proactive and well-planned electrification strategy indispensable.
Your 4-point action plan for the gradual electrification of the fleet
A successful transformation requires a clear, pragmatic process. With an experienced partner by your side, you can master the transition in four manageable steps:
Needs Analysis and TCO Assessment: First, your specific route profiles, vehicle utilization, and operating costs are analyzed. Based on this, a transparent Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis is created that compares the total costs of diesel vs. electric operation over the entire lifespan.
Funding Check and Application Submission: A specialist identifies all relevant funding sources from the federal and state levels. They assist you in submitting the applications on time to secure the maximum funding rate of 80% for vehicles and 40% for the charging infrastructure.
Pilot Phase with DTE Conversion: Start with the conversion of some existing vehicles. The Diesel-to-Electric (DTE) conversion, that is, the retrofitting of existing diesel vehicles to electric drive, conserves valuable resources and preserves costly special structures.
Establishing the Charging Infrastructure and Scaling: In parallel with the pilot phase, the appropriate charging infrastructure is planned and installed with 40% funding. After successful testing, the rollout is scaled to the entire fleet to create a holistic mobility solution.
This structured approach minimizes investment risk and ensures a smooth transition.
Renovation instead of new purchase: The economic superiority of the DTE conversion
The decision between a new electric vehicle and retrofitting an existing diesel is central. Here, the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) plays a crucial role. The TCO considers all costs over the lifespan of a vehicle, not just the purchase price. While electric transporters are more expensive to acquire, the costs often amortize through lower energy and maintenance expenses. The decisive advantage of the Diesel-to-Electric (DTE) retrofit lies in the circular economy. You keep your tried-and-true Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and their often costly specialized bodies. Instead of tying up capital in completely new vehicles, you invest specifically in a new, clean powertrain. This reduces investment costs by up to 50% compared to purchasing new and is a clear commitment to sustainability. Let us create a detailed amortization calculation for your fleet. This way, electrification becomes a strategic decision for cost reduction.
Use funding pots optimally: 80% subsidy for vehicles and 40% for charging infrastructure
The current funding landscape in Germany offers unprecedented financial support. Through the funding guideline for electromobility from the BMDV, companies and municipalities can receive up to 80% of the additional costs for the purchase of an electric commercial vehicle or for a DTE conversion as a grant. This drastically reduces the initial investment. Additionally, the establishment of the necessary non-public charging infrastructure is supported with up to 40% of eligible expenses. This combination makes the shift more economically attractive than ever before. It is important to meet the application deadline of August 31, 2025. A specialized partner will help you combine the right programs and submit the applications correctly and on time. Thus, bureaucracy will not be an obstacle on your way to the e-fleet. Find the right provider for a certified conversion now.
Practical technology: range and charging power for professional use
The practicality decides the success of electrification in everyday life. HEERO relies on powerful and reliable components for maximum availability. A converted HEERO DTE-Sprinter achieves a range of up to 425 kilometers, for example. The HEERO eTransporter even manages up to 500 kilometers with a single charge. For passenger transport, the tourer offers up to 400 kilometers of range for nine people. All these models use a 110 kWh gross battery and charge with up to 135 kW at DC fast charging stations. Even special vehicles like the mid-floor bus impress with up to 300 km range and a charging power of up to 165 kW. These values ensure that your vehicles can complete their daily routes without compromise. The conversion also takes place without sacrificing familiar operation. Thus, the switch to e-mobility becomes a real, operationally secure alternative.
Your advantage with HEERO: Partnership for a successful transformation
A successful fleet electrification is more than just replacing vehicles. It is a strategic project requiring expertise in vehicle technology, funding landscape, charging infrastructure, and operating cost analysis. Heero understands itself as your partner that accompanies you through the entire process. From the initial, non-binding analysis of your fleet to support in applying for funding up to implementation and scaling. We offer you a customized roadmap for the gradual electrification of your large diesel fleet. Our focus on DTE conversion of Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles ensures you an economical and sustainable solution that retains the value of your existing fleet. Start your funding analysis now and make optimal use of the remaining time until the deadline on August 31, 2025.
Start your funding analysis: Answer three questions, receive your grant roadmap, and take advantage of the 80% funding.
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More useful links
The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) provides current information on climate protection in the transportation sector.
The Federal Environment Agency publishes an analysis of the environmental balance of motor vehicles.
The Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) provides statistics on new vehicle registrations in Germany.
The German Association of Cities and Towns has published documentation on electric mobility for municipal commercial vehicles.
The Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) informs about the funding program for climate protection and sustainability in the domestic market (KSNI).
The National Control Center for Charging Infrastructure provides information and initiatives on the topic of commercial vehicles.
The Federal Environment Agency informs about environmental zones in Germany and their contribution to reducing fine dust.
Strategy& (PwC) has published an article on the breakthrough of e-trucks.
The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) has created a factsheet on the total cost of ownership (TCO) of battery-electric trucks (BETs) in Europe.
FAQ
What range do the converted vehicles have?
The range is model-specific and proven in practice. A Heero DTE Sprinter reaches up to 425 km, the eTransporter up to 500 km, and bus solutions up to 300 km. The range is adjusted to your specific usage profiles.
How long does a diesel-to-electric conversion take?
The actual conversion process of a vehicle typically takes only a few weeks. Including planning, logistics, and quality assurance, you should expect a manageable time frame per vehicle that enables quick reintegration into your fleet.
Does the payload remain intact after the conversion?
The payload is affected by the conversion, as the battery has a higher weight than the diesel drivetrain. We analyze your specific application and design the conversion so that the payload remains absolutely practical for your daily requirements.
Do I also get support in planning the charging infrastructure?
Yes, a partnership approach includes comprehensive advice. This includes analyzing charging needs, planning the appropriate charging infrastructure (AC and DC charging), and support in applying for the 40% funding for installation.
Why should I collaborate with a specialist like Heero?
A specialist in the gradual electrification of a large diesel fleet combines technical know-how, detailed knowledge of the funding landscape, and strategic consultation. This minimizes your risk, speeds up the process, and ensures that you receive an economically and ecologically optimal solution tailored exactly to your needs.
What happens if I miss the funding deadline on August 31, 2025?
After August 31, 2025, no applications can be submitted under the current, very advantageous funding guidelines. Future funding programs are uncertain and may offer significantly lower grants. Timely action secures you the maximum financial support.
