Electrifying refrigerated transport: Full cooling capacity and reduced operating costs through retrofitting.
Are you facing the challenge of future-proofing your refrigeration fleet without having to write off expensive custom setups? Electrifying existing refrigerated transport vehicles is the solution that combines ecological necessity with economic sense. Learn how to maintain the performance of your refrigeration units to 100% while drastically reducing operational costs.
The topic briefly and concisely
The conversion of a refrigerated transport vehicle to electric drive maintains full cooling capacity thanks to autonomous energy systems, without affecting the vehicle's range.
Through massive savings on energy and maintenance costs, as well as government subsidies of up to 80%, the conversion is more economical than operating a diesel.
The continued use of the expensive cooling system conserves valuable resources, protects your investment, and is an active contribution to the circular economy.
For operators of refrigerated transport fleets, such as in the food or pharmaceutical logistics sectors, the situation is becoming increasingly complex. Rising operating costs due to CO₂ levies and impending diesel driving bans in German city centers require immediate action. At the same time, purchasing a new electric refrigerated vehicle involves significant capital commitment and leads to the loss of investment in often only a few years old, expensive specialized fittings. HEERO offers a technologically leading solution with the patented D2E conversion: We electrify the base of your proven Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and fully preserve your valuable refrigerated build – a pragmatic decision in terms of the circular economy.
The double challenge for refrigerated fleets: costs and access restrictions
The operation of diesel refrigerated transporters is becoming an increasing economic burden for logistics companies and municipalities. The CO₂ tax raises the cost of every kilometer driven, which increases the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) by several percentage points annually. At the same time, cities like Stuttgart and Munich are tightening their access regulations and closing entire environmental zones to diesel vehicles below the Euro 6 standard, which can result in fines of over 100 euros. This development threatens the operational capability of fleets that often rely on expensive and durable specialized equipment for refrigerated transport. The lifespan of this equipment often exceeds that of the base vehicle by more than 5 years. A complete new purchase would destroy these still intact values and represents an investment of often over 100,000 euros. This situation requires a solution that is both economically and operationally convincing.
Investments protect through retrofitting: The intelligent alternative to buying new
Instead of prematurely writing off a fully functional refrigerated cell along with the unit, HEERO offers the solution: the D2E conversion (Diesel-to-Electric) of your existing Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. This approach is a prime example of living circular economy, a principle that is also promoted by the EU for commercial vehicles. We retain your expensive structure 100% and simply replace the fossil drivetrain with our powerful electric drive. This process takes only 10 working days. By doing so, you protect your original investment of several tens of thousands of euros in the refrigerated structure. The continued use of high-quality components is not only sustainable but also the most economically smart decision for fleet operators. You avoid the high acquisition costs and long delivery times for a new electric vehicle and modernize your fleet in a very short time. This turns a potential loss of value into a future-proof investment.
Uncompromising cooling performance: The HEERO energy concept
The central requirement for a refrigerated truck when converting to electric is maintaining the full performance of the refrigeration unit without compromises. Many operators fear that the refrigeration will drastically reduce the vehicle's range. The Heero energy concept eliminates this problem through a completely autonomous system for refrigeration technology. The refrigeration is not powered by the vehicle's main traction battery. Instead, we integrate a separate, high-performance power supply specifically designed for the refrigeration unit.
This system ensures constant and reliable refrigeration under all conditions:
Completely autonomous operation: The refrigeration unit operates with its own electrical circuit and does not affect the vehicle range of up to 425 km.
Powerful battery solution: We use dedicated and maintenance-free lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFePo4), which are designed for 6-12 hours of continuous operation.
Uninterrupted refrigeration chain: The cooling continues reliably even with the vehicle engine off, for example, during unloading at the customer.
Flexible charging options: The cooling system can be pre-charged independently of the vehicle, for example, overnight at a 230V socket.
With this technological separation, we guarantee that your electrically converted refrigerated truck offers the same or even better performance than a diesel vehicle.
TCO Analysis: Why Retrofitting is the Most Economical Decision
The decision to retrofit is not only sustainable but above all financially superior. A detailed analysis of the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) shows that a Sprinter retrofitted by Heero falls significantly below the costs of a Diesel counterpart and often even those of a new electric vehicle. The higher initial investments usually amortize within 4 to 6 years. Savings arise from several factors. The energy costs per 100 km for an electric transporter are around 5-6 euros, while a comparable diesel incurs over 12 euros. Additionally, maintenance costs are at least 30% lower, as maintenance-intensive components such as the exhaust system or oil changes are eliminated. The retrofitting becomes particularly attractive due to government subsidies. The Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) subsidizes the retrofitting of commercial vehicles by up to 80% of the additional investment costs compared to a diesel. Heero actively supports you in applying for these funds. By combining lower operating costs, subsidies, and maintaining your valuable setup, the sustainable modernization of your fleet becomes the most profitable option.
Future-proof in the environmental zone: Guaranteeing full operational readiness
The increasing number of environmental zones and diesel bans in German cities poses a massive operational hurdle for logistics and craft businesses. A retrofitted HEERO electric transporter offers the decisive solution here: unrestricted access. This provides you with 100% planning security for all urban deliveries and operations. While diesel fleets struggle with special permits and face fines of up to 128.50 euros per violation, you drive emission-free and without limitations.
The conversion ensures you have decisive operational advantages:
Legal compliance: You meet the requirements of tomorrow today and are not affected by future tightening of environmental regulations.
Unrestricted access: Your vehicles can enter all environmental zones at any time, which simplifies route planning and increases efficiency.
Competitive advantage: You position yourself as a reliable partner for customers in inner-city locations and stand out from competitors with outdated fleets.
No delivery delays: You bypass the often long delivery times for new electric transporters of 12 months or more with a quick conversion of your existing fleet.
This operational reliability is an invaluable advantage in daily competition and makes the conversion a strategic decision for the future of your company.
Conclusion: Your advantage with HEERO – Economical, sustainable, powerful
Converting your refrigerated transporter to a purely electric drive is the most pragmatic and intelligent solution for the challenges of modern city logistics. You do not have to compromise on cooling performance and benefit from massive cost advantages that reduce your TCO by up to 30%. At the same time, you are acting in the spirit of the circular economy by preserving valuable special constructions and conserving resources. With a Heero E-Transporter, you not only secure free access to all environmental zones, but you also position your company as an innovative and responsible market leader. Heero is your partner for a future-proof fleet that perfectly combines economic sense and ecological responsibility. Experience the benefits yourself. Request your personal consultation now or book an everyday test free of charge.
More useful links
The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport offers comprehensive information on climate protection in transport, particularly regarding commercial vehicles with alternative drives.
The Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) provides detailed information on the funding program for climate protection and sustainability in the commercial vehicle sector (KSNI).
The National Control Center for Charging Infrastructure provides important information on the topic of commercial vehicles and the associated charging infrastructure.
The Development Bank (KfW) offers an overview of various funding opportunities in the field of sustainable mobility for companies.
The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) has published a study on the total cost of ownership (TCO) of battery-electric trucks in Europe.
The P3 Group compares in an article the total cost of ownership (TCO) of electric heavy-duty vehicles (e-HDT) with those of heavy-duty vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE-HDT).
The Energy Agency of Rhineland-Palatinate reports on the continuous growth of the stock of electric commercial vehicles in Germany.
The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) provides information on the funding database for programs for electric commercial vehicle applications and infrastructures.
FAQ
Will my specialized vehicle retain its approval after the conversion?
Yes, the approval of the refrigeration unit is fully retained. Since we only change the drive system of the base vehicle, no new approvals or certifications for the body (e.g., ATP certificate) are necessary. You retain all the features and certificates of your proven system.
What funding can I apply for to convert my refrigerated vehicle?
You can benefit from the federal program 'Climate-Friendly Commercial and Special Vehicles' (KsNI) of the Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM). This program reimburses up to 80% of the additional investment costs. Our team provides comprehensive support with the application process.
How does the maintenance of a converted refrigerated transporter work?
Maintenance is significantly easier and more cost-effective compared to a diesel. The electric motor and battery are virtually maintenance-free. Service for the drive can be carried out by certified partners, while the refrigeration unit continues to be maintained by your specialist as usual.
Does Heero also offer a solution for charging infrastructure?
Yes, we provide comprehensive advice on the charging infrastructure that suits your fleet. From the wall box at the depot to fast charging solutions, we work with you to develop an integrated concept that is also eligible for funding.
Can I test a converted refrigerated transporter in advance?
Of course. We are confident in our technology and therefore offer you the opportunity to test a reference vehicle in your daily operations. Simply book a 'Zero-Cost Everyday Test' and experience the advantages for yourself.
What range can I realistically expect with a fully loaded refrigerated transporter?
Our Heero E-Transporter achieves a practical range of up to 425 km (WLTP). Since the refrigeration system has its own independent energy system, this range is not affected by the operation of the refrigeration unit, even at full capacity.
