+49 (0) 2571 99798-0
info@greiwing.com
In the fast-moving world of mobility, the search for efficient and sustainable solutions for the transportation sector is of central importance. Particularly in Europe, where scheduled services play a key role in public transport, the electrification of commercial vehicles is a decisive step towards more environmentally friendly and efficient transportation. One promising solution that is increasingly coming into focus is battery swap systems. However, targeted cooperation and strategic partnerships are essential in order to successfully bring this innovation to Europe.
The challenge of electrification in scheduled services
Public transport in Europe comprises a large number of bus and truck routes that transport large numbers of passengers and goods every day. The electrification of these fleets poses a considerable challenge. The high initial investment in electric vehicles, the limited range and the long charging time are just some of the hurdles that need to be overcome.
This is where battery replacement systems come into play. These systems offer a practical solution by replacing the lengthy charging process with a quick exchange of empty batteries for fully charged ones. This significantly reduces downtimes and enables continuous use of the vehicles, which is particularly important in intensive use scenarios such as scheduled services.
The role of cooperation
Various collaborations and partnerships are needed to successfully implement battery swap systems in Europe:
- Manufacturer of battery changing systems and vehicle manufacturerThe development and integration of battery changing systems requires close cooperation between the manufacturers of the changing stations and the vehicle manufacturers. Only through coordinated developments can seamless and efficient systems be created that can be used in both new vehicles and existing fleets.
- Infrastructure operators and local authoritiesThe installation and maintenance of substations require close cooperation with local authorities and infrastructure operators. These partnerships are crucial for the selection of suitable locations, the integration of the substations into existing transportation networks and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
- Energy supplier and technology providerThe energy supply for the battery exchange stations must be ensured. Cooperation with energy suppliers is important to ensure a stable and sustainable energy source for charging the batteries. Technology providers also play a role by contributing innovative solutions for energy efficiency and management.
- Passenger and commercial vehicle operatorsAcceptance of the new technology by operators and users is crucial. Training in the operation of the new systems and demonstrating the benefits in terms of costs and efficiency are essential steps to promote broad acceptance.
- Research and development centersThe continuous development of battery technology and exchange mechanisms requires research and innovation. Partnerships with universities and research institutes are necessary to keep the technology up to date and develop new solutions.
Our involvement in the ehaul.eu project
We, Greiwing Truck & Trailerare proud to be a partner of the innovative project ehaul.eu project, which represents a significant step towards the electrification of regular services in Europe. As part of this project, we are deploying the first two battery swap trucks in Europe. These vehicles, converted Designwerk vehicles, were delivered by us to the rental customers Reinert Logistik and Unitax Logistik rental customers.
The ehaul.eu project is run by the Technical University of Berlin under the direction of Dr. Jens Jerratsch and will run for 18 months. The aim of the project is to test and optimize the practicality and efficiency of battery swap systems in real operating conditions. The initial results are eagerly awaited, as they will provide valuable insights into the long-term performance and cost-effectiveness of this technology.
The prospects for the European market
We are convinced that the market for battery swap systems in Europe will develop in line with the success in China. In China, such systems have already proven to be widespread and effective, and we believe that Europe will offer a similarly large market for these technologies. If the European market is not sufficiently addressed by the established manufacturers, new OEM suppliers of commercial vehicles could seize the opportunity to gain a foothold in this area.
Another advantage of battery swap systems is their ability to counteract the challenges of an unstable power grid. By storing and distributing energy centrally in the form of batteries, these systems can help to stabilize the grid and ensure a reliable energy supply.
The vision of an electrified future
The long-term goal is a seamless electrification of scheduled services in Europe, where the "most expensive hotel room in the world", the driver's cabin, is no longer the focus. Instead, the focus can be on maximizing vehicle usage and reducing operating costs. Meeting services and regular interchanges can form the basis for an efficient and environmentally friendly transport system that not only makes scheduled services more sustainable, but also more economically viable.
Through targeted cooperation between all stakeholders and innovative projects such as ehaul.eu, we can create a future in which public transport in Europe is not only electrified, but also optimized. The implementation of battery swap systems is a decisive step towards sustainable and efficient mobility.
This new era of transportation will not only be about shifting from diesel to electric, but also about creating an integrated system that combines the strengths of all partners and overcomes the challenges of the future. It's an exciting time for the mobility industry, and through innovation and cooperation, together we can pave the way to an electrified future.
Find out more in the YouTube video!
