In June 2024, Scania and Daimler Truck simultaneously announced the formation of two companies to support global truckers in transitioning to electric mobility. These new entities will specialize in electric truck charging solutions, addressing the current primary obstacle to the energy transition in transport: the availability and speed of charging stations.
Scania has founded Erinion, aiming to create 40,000 charging points for its customers. Through an indirect partnership with Milence, a public charging station infrastructure provider, Scania plans to install battery charging stations at logistics platforms and transport companies' premises. A study conducted by Traton, Scania’s parent company, indicates that future energy for electric trucks will primarily come from depot charging or during loading and unloading operations, with public stations complementing the charging infrastructure network.
“The advantages of this solution are numerous: predictable charging schedules to ensure vehicles are fully charged, longer operational times, and ultimately, maximum operational efficiency and savings through predictable and stable energy costs tailored to each customer’s specific operations,” explained Jonas Hernlund, head of energy and infrastructure at the group. The Swedish manufacturer’s research also estimates that the shift to electric mobility combined with optimized charging solutions could lead to fleet management cost savings of approximately 15,000 euros per truck annually.
Erinion’s services will include network connection and terminal installation, as well as equipment control and maintenance. Initially, the new company will establish its presence in Sweden, Norway, the UK, the Netherlands, France, and Germany, with plans for global expansion subsequently.
Daimler Truck has embarked on a similar path, founding Truck Charge to develop and install truck charging infrastructure across Europe. Truck Charge will offer digital and consulting services to all customers, regardless of truck brand, and will provide advice to fleet managers and industrial companies aiming to achieve zero CO2 emissions in their supply chains through a gradual shift to electric traction.
The consultancy will cover identifying electrified routes, planning transport services, constructing and developing charging infrastructure, financing or network connection, and providing technical assistance on the management, operation, and maintenance of electric trucks.
Truck Charge will also develop a fast-charging infrastructure network for heavy-duty vehicles and, for this purpose, has partnered with Alpitronic, a provider of ultra-fast chargers. “Daimler Truck intends to offer customers a comprehensive and economically advantageous package, from energy generation to vehicle operation, allowing them to fully exploit the potential of electrification,” Daimler stated on its portal. Truck Charge’s program will be officially presented in September at the IAA Transportation fair in Hannover.
Marco Martinelli
