Revolutionizing Automotive Logistics: DB Schenker's E-Truck Fleet Leads the Way in Sustainable Supply Chains

Introduction: A Leap Towards Sustainable Logistics

In a significant move towards sustainable logistics, DB Schenker has recently acquired ten brand-new electric trucks from MAN's Munich plant. This acquisition not only expands DB Schenker's eco-friendly fleet but also marks a crucial step in supporting the automotive industry's transition to more sustainable supply chains. As a leading digital logistics platform, we at FreightAmigo are excited to explore the implications of this development for the future of freight transportation and automotive logistics.

Key facts from this groundbreaking initiative include:

• Ten new e-trucks added to DB Schenker's fleet
• Battery capacity of 480 kWh, enabling a range of about 500 kilometers
• Specialized design for automotive logistics with a guaranteed throughput height of three meters
• Operational between DB Schenker locations across Germany, focusing on MAN plants in Munich and Nuremberg

The E-Truck Advantage in Automotive Logistics

The newly acquired e-trucks are specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of the automotive industry. William Kratsch, Head of Direct Operations at DB Schenker's Coburg/Bamberg office, emphasizes the importance of these vehicles' features: "In automotive logistics, we transport a lot of volume. Therefore, the decisive factor for our vehicles is not the high payload, but the now guaranteed throughput height of three meters. This is elementary for an automotive location like ours."

This specialization is crucial for DB Schenker's operations, particularly in Bamberg, where they serve as the OEM regional forwarder for MAN in Northern Bavaria. In the past year alone, nearly 350,000 pallets were transported through Bamberg for MAN, highlighting the scale and importance of this logistics operation.

A Day in the Life of an E-Truck: Efficiency in Motion

The operational schedule of these e-trucks is a testament to their efficiency and reliability. A typical day for one of these vehicles includes:

• 1:00 AM: Departure from Bamberg with a fully loaded trailer
• 4:00 AM: Quick charging stop in Hochbrück
• 5:30 AM: Arrival at MAN's Munich plant for trailer exchange
• 7:30 AM: Pick-up of packaging material and empties in Dachau
• 11:00 AM: Return to Bamberg
• 4:00 PM: Departure to MAN's Nuremberg plant (65 km away)
• 6:00 PM: Return to Bamberg with empty racks, flat pallets, or wire boxes

This tight schedule demonstrates the e-trucks' capability to handle demanding logistics tasks efficiently, proving that sustainable solutions can meet the rigorous requirements of automotive supply chains.

Decarbonizing Logistics: A Collaborative Effort

The implementation of these e-trucks aligns perfectly with MAN Truck & Bus's strategy to gradually move away from fossil fuels. Munich, being MAN's headquarters and main plant, is at the forefront of developing electromobility, digitalization, and automation technologies. Similarly, Nuremberg serves as the international lead plant for alternative and conventional drive technologies, producing both traditional engines and batteries for electric trucks and buses.

MAN's environmental declaration for its Munich and Nuremberg sites states, "MAN's declared goal is to systematically identify the largest sources of emissions along the supply chain using life cycle assessments and to involve suppliers along the entire value chain in taking responsibility for the environmental impact of the vehicles." DB Schenker's precisely timed transport operations with e-trucks fit seamlessly into this corporate strategy, showcasing how logistics providers can actively contribute to manufacturers' sustainability goals.

Performance and Efficiency: Exceeding Expectations

The performance of these e-trucks has been impressive from the start. William Kratsch notes, "We were already very positively surprised in the first week. 121 kWh per 100 kilometers is already very efficient, especially in the cold season. In the meantime, the figures show consumption of less than 110kWh per 100km." This efficiency is achieved while the vehicle is optimally loaded with an average of 14 to 16 tons of cargo.

Interestingly, the energy consumption is lower when the e-truck travels on country roads rather than highways. Driver behavior also significantly influences consumption, prompting specialized training for drivers, particularly in recuperation techniques, to achieve the best possible efficiency values.

Changing Perceptions: From Skepticism to Enthusiasm

Initially, some drivers were skeptical about the new vehicles. However, Kratsch explains that this skepticism quickly turns to enthusiasm after a test drive: "But at the latest after a test drive, they recognize the advantages of e-mobility: the quiet driving without shifting, the modern, ergonomic seats. And the acceleration, it's incredible!"

The silent operation of these heavy vehicles, weighing more than 40 tons, has also caught the attention of forklift drivers and other workers at customer sites, often leading to impromptu photo sessions with the e-trucks. This growing enthusiasm reflects a broader shift in perception towards electric vehicles in the logistics sector.

DB Schenker's Commitment to E-Mobility

This initiative is part of DB Schenker's broader commitment to expanding its electric vehicle fleet. The company plans to incorporate 100 MAN eTGX trucks into its fleet by 2026. Additionally, they have agreed to the delivery of 50 MAN eTGL trucks, 12-ton vehicles primarily intended for last-mile delivery.

William Kratsch's perspective on the future of e-mobility in logistics is particularly insightful: "Just a year ago, I was skeptical about e-trucks. But when I look at the progress that has been made since then in storage, performance, and charging technology, it gets exciting! There's an enormous amount of innovation and know-how in e-mobility. The potential is huge!"

Implications for the Future of Logistics

As a digital logistics platform, FreightAmigo recognizes the significance of these developments in shaping the future of freight transportation. The successful implementation of e-trucks in such a demanding sector as automotive logistics demonstrates the viability of sustainable solutions in even the most challenging logistics scenarios.

This transition to electric vehicles in logistics operations has several important implications:

1. Environmental Impact: The shift to e-trucks significantly reduces direct CO2 emissions and noise pollution, contributing to cleaner and quieter urban environments.
2. Operational Efficiency: As demonstrated by DB Schenker's experience, e-trucks can maintain tight schedules and handle heavy loads efficiently, dispelling concerns about their practicality in demanding logistics operations.
3. Technological Advancements: The rapid improvements in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and vehicle performance are making e-trucks increasingly viable for a wider range of logistics applications.
4. Industry Collaboration: The partnership between DB Schenker and MAN showcases how logistics providers and manufacturers can work together to achieve sustainability goals.
5. Workforce Adaptation: The positive reception from drivers after experiencing the e-trucks highlights the importance of proper training and hands-on experience in facilitating the transition to new technologies.

FreightAmigo's Role in Supporting Sustainable Logistics

As the logistics industry moves towards more sustainable practices, FreightAmigo is committed to supporting this transition through our digital logistics platform. We recognize the importance of adapting to these industry developments and offer solutions that can help our clients navigate the changing landscape of sustainable logistics:

1. Eco-friendly Route Optimization: Our platform can help identify the most fuel-efficient routes, which is particularly beneficial for e-trucks with specific range limitations.
2. Real-time Tracking and Monitoring: We provide advanced tracking capabilities that can help logistics providers optimize the use of their e-truck fleets, ensuring efficient charging schedules and route planning.
3. Integration of Sustainable Options: As more logistics providers adopt eco-friendly vehicles, we are working to integrate these options into our quote comparison system, allowing clients to choose greener transportation methods easily.
4. Data Analytics for Sustainability: Our platform's analytics capabilities can help companies assess the environmental impact of their logistics operations, supporting informed decision-making in fleet management and sustainability initiatives.
5. Collaborative Network: We facilitate connections between forward-thinking logistics providers and clients seeking sustainable transportation options, fostering a community committed to reducing the environmental impact of freight transportation.

Conclusion: Driving Towards a Sustainable Future

The introduction of e-trucks in automotive logistics by DB Schenker represents a significant milestone in the journey towards sustainable supply chains. It demonstrates that with the right technology and strategic planning, even the most demanding logistics operations can be made more environmentally friendly without compromising efficiency or reliability.

As the logistics industry continues to evolve, FreightAmigo remains committed to providing cutting-edge digital solutions that support and accelerate the transition to sustainable practices. We believe that by embracing these innovations and working collaboratively across the industry, we can create a more sustainable and efficient future for logistics.

The success of DB Schenker's e-truck initiative in automotive logistics is just the beginning. As technology continues to advance and more companies recognize the benefits of sustainable logistics, we can expect to see a rapid transformation in how goods are transported around the world. FreightAmigo is excited to be at the forefront of this revolution, helping our clients navigate the path to a greener, more efficient future in logistics.