Electric transporters and buses
Charging solutions for depots and commercial fleets
Electric mobility is an excellent alternative to conventional combustion-powered cars, and not just for passenger cars. Commercial vehicles such as buses or LCVs can also take a step towards a more sustainable future. After all, zero-emission local and long-distance transportation is now the declared goal of cities and municipalities. The EU’s “Clean Vehicle Directive” requires 65% of public buses to be “clean” – i.e. powered by electricity, hydrogen, natural gas or synthetic and biofuels – by 2030. This puts pressure on public clients to provide CO2-free passenger transportation and bus companies must gradually switch to electric buses. However, it is also important for freight forwarders to switch to electric commercial vehicles and position themselves for the future.
The CO2 truck toll came into force on December 1, 2023. From now on, 200 euros will be charged per ton of CO2. Companies that invest in electric trucks now can therefore save a lot of money every year in the future. A study by the ICCT (International Council on Clean Transportation) predicts that electric vans will be the most cost-effective way to decarbonize most truck classes by 2030. Electric transporters are expected to offer a cost advantage of around 30 percent by 2030.
Switching to electric vans – that’s why now is the right time
Electric vehicles that can only cover short distances in one go and regularly require long charging times are a thing of the past. Electric vans such as electric buses or electric trucks now have a range of up to 550 kilometers. In general, it depends on the route chosen as to whether public charging is necessary at all. We will advise you in detail on which vehicles and routes make sense for your requirements and also plan the charging infrastructure to suit you!
Depending on the infrastructure, the time required for a complete charging process at charging stations for companies is only a few hours; however, the battery of a van can also be charged to almost 80% of its maximum capacity in less than half an hour using fast chargers. This means that electric vans are now also suitable for long-distance transportation and the switch to e-buses and e-vans is no longer a vision of the future. Thanks to a large number of vehicle manufacturers and a constantly expanding charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, you have a wide range of options for making the switch. This also makes it possible to comply with national and European CO2 reduction laws.
But how can the switch to electric vans be realized? Subsidies offer financial support when switching to electric vans. A complex landscape of funding opportunities available at both state and municipal level can provide up to 80 percent funding on the investment amount. We would be happy to provide you with more detailed information during a personal consultation and show you how you can make the most of subsidies for electric vans.
Depot solutions with Mer – our comprehensive range for electric vans
Consulting, pre-check and planning
- Commercial advice (also for the optimal use of subsidies for the switch to electric vans)
- Examination of the technical, spatial and energy-related feasibility of electric vans on site in order to create a concept that is as economical as possible for customers
Hardware
Provision of high-quality and fast-charging electric bus charging stations or electric truck charging stations (e.g. AC and DC charging stations, wall boxes, etc.) depending on the downtimes at the depot
Project management and installation incl. grid connection
Testing the integration of existing software (timetables, scheduling, billing)
Commissioning of the system
Testing the finished system and activating the charging solution for electric vans
Energy management and power supply
- Supply with 100 percent green electricity and integration of PV systems and battery storage to reduce infrastructure and energy costs
- Optimized charging management taking into account peak loads
Administration and billing
- Billing of fixed electricity prices
- Monthly flat rates for better planning
Service and support
- Customer portal and public charging card with fleet billing
- 24/7 service for trouble-free operation of the electric van charging stations
- Contact person around the clock
What is important for electric vans? Specifics for depot solutions
With our complete range of services for your electric vans, we ensure smooth operation. Because we cover all areas that are important for charging solutions for companies.
- High availability of the depot
A breakdown of your electric vans would cause economic damage to your company. We are aware of this and therefore ensure that you do not have to worry about this situation occurring. With our 24/7 service, which is defined in a service level agreement (SLA), we ensure uninterrupted operation. This ensures that your electric vans are always ready for use and guarantees uninterrupted operation for both your employees and your customers.
- Competent planning
Competent planning of the infrastructure for your electric transporters not only ensures a smooth process. We also take local conditions into account when designing depot solutions, for example by checking grid connections and available transformer stations. This means you benefit from an optimum price-performance ratio and an economical overall solution.
- Efficient energy distribution
With dynamic load management, we ensure that the available energy is distributed as efficiently as possible to the charging stations for your electric vans. Thanks to battery storage and PV systems, the required energy is guaranteed.
Start a sustainable and cost-effective future with electric vans
Now is the time to push ahead with the mobility transition and make the leap into a sustainable and competitive future for your company. With our complete solutions for electric vans and e-bus charging stations, we can provide you with comprehensive support for this project. Would you like more information about our charging solutions for electric vans? Would you like a non-binding consultation or would you like to find out more about your options? We will be happy to help you. Contact us now.
By the way: Would you also like to offer charging to employees, customers or visitors? Find out more about our charging solutions for companies here.
FAQ
What are the advantages of switching to an electric van?
- Electric vehicles are now also suitable for long distances.
- The CO2 truck toll introduced at the end of 2023 can be saved.
- Subsidies for electric vans help with the switch.
- You are thinking long-term, with a view to the Clean Vehicle Directive, so that you are already prepared for the inevitable switch to “clean” fuel.
- All of this will have a positive impact on your company’s image.
What kind of charging stations are available for electric vans?
Mer provides high-quality and fast-charging electric bus charging stations for you. As electric vans now have a range of up to 550 km, you will not usually need to charge on the road.
How long does it take to fully charge an electric van?
A full charge takes a few hours, depending on the infrastructure. At fast charging stations, up to 80% capacity can even be charged within half an hour.
Why are charging solutions for depots and commercial fleets important?
Charging solutions for depots and commercial fleets provide a reliable infrastructure to efficiently charge electric vehicles during their rest periods. This optimizes operations, reduces vehicle downtime and supports the transition to a more sustainable transport solution for commercial fleets.