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The electrification of commercial vehicles is a decisive step towards a sustainable and more environmentally friendly future. While electric vehicles (EVs) are already gaining popularity in the passenger car segment, there is even greater potential in the commercial vehicle sector. Commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses and vans are essential parts of the global transportation system and their electrification can bring significant benefits.
Why the electrification of commercial vehicles is necessary
Commercial vehicles, which are traditionally powered by diesel engines, cause a significant proportion of CO₂ emissions in the transport sector. According to a study by the European Environment Agency (EEA), trucks and buses are responsible for around 25% of CO₂ emissions in road transport, although they only account for 5% of vehicles on the road. Switching to electric drives could therefore have a major impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and thus contribute to achieving climate targets.
The main advantages of electrifying commercial vehicles
Reduction of CO₂ emissionsThe most obvious advantage of electrification is the drastic reduction in CO₂ emissions. Electric commercial vehicles do not emit CO₂ during operation, which helps to improve air quality and reduce climate change.
Lower operating costsElectric vehicles have fewer moving parts than combustion engines and therefore require less maintenance. In addition, the energy costs for operating an electric vehicle are generally lower than the fuel costs for a diesel or gasoline vehicle. These factors lead to significant cost savings in operation.
Noise reductionElectric commercial vehicles are much quieter than their counterparts with combustion engines. This is particularly advantageous in urban areas where noise pollution is a major problem. Deliveries at night or in residential areas can be carried out more quietly and with less disturbance.
Energy independence and use of renewable energiesElectric vehicles can be powered by electricity from renewable sources, which reduces dependence on fossil fuels. Companies that operate their own solar panels or wind turbines can even charge their vehicles with self-generated, clean energy. For example, the use of self-generated electricity can be expected to cost €8.75 per 100KM with electricity generation costs of €0.07 and a consumption of 125KW/100KM. A conventional diesel truck has costs of €37.80 per 100KM with a diesel price of €1.35 and a consumption of 28 liters.
Tax incentives and subsidiesMany governments offer incentives for the purchase of electric vehicles, including tax breaks, subsidies and lower tolls. These incentives can offset the higher purchase cost of a commercial electric vehicle and ease the transition. In Germany, we can save 100% of the truck toll by the end of 2025 and 75% from 2026 by using electric trucks. This means that for those who drive a lot of toll routes, the business case for using an electric truck will be even quicker.
Improved energy efficiencyElectric vehicles use energy more efficiently than vehicles with combustion engines. While an internal combustion engine only converts around 30% of the fuel's energy into motion, electric vehicles achieve efficiencies of over 85%. This means that less energy is needed to cover the same distance.
Greiwing Truck & Trailer: Your partner for the CO₂-neutral supply chain
As Greiwing Truck & Trailer we are committed to actively shaping the transformation towards a CO₂-neutral supply chain for freight forwarders and shippers. Our vision is not just to rent out vehicles, but to offer our customers a holistic concept that supports them on their path to sustainable mobility.
Innovative rental offer for e-trucks
We offer innovative rental solutions for electric trucks that enable freight forwarders and shippers to switch to electromobility without major investment. Our rental fleet includes state-of-the-art electric commercial vehicles, in particular tractor units from all renowned manufacturers, which can be used both in urban delivery traffic and on longer routes. With flexible rental models, we adapt to the individual needs of our customers and thus offer maximum planning security. We also have subsidized vehicles from the KsNI program, which we pass on 100% to our rental customers.
