DB Schenker: EV Shift with Battery Swap Project
DB Schenker, in collaboration with Trailer Dynamics and CATL, has undertaken a feasibility study on creating battery-swapping stations to support electrified trailers and potentially electric trucks across Europe.
The approach promises to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of battery charging, establishing systems that can swap batteries in minutes — offering increased range and uptime for EVs in Europe's heavy goods transport sector.
Battery-swapping systems are well-suited to meet the dynamic requirements of eTrailer users, enhancing operational efficiency by minimising downtime.
The projected five-minute battery swap time and flexible battery modules cater to various use cases, optimising logistics in electrified heavy transport and reducing dependency on traditional charging infrastructure.
Wolfgang Janda, EVP at DB Schenker Europe, explains: "This project is a clear commitment of DB Schenker to a low-emission and efficient transport industry in Europe."
"Battery swap technology will play a crucial role in overcoming charging infrastructure challenges and supporting the market ramp-up of zero-tailpipe-emission heavy goods transport specifically in Europe."
Supporting electrification across Europe
As a leading logistics service provider, DB Schenker is leveraging its extensive network and logistics expertise to determine the best locations for battery-swapping stations and mapping out future potential sites across Europe.
The stations will significantly expand the reach and convenience of electrified trailers and trucks, a critical need as Europe transitions to sustainable freight solutions.
Trailer Dynamics, a pioneer in eTrailer technology, focuses on integrating an electric drive system designed to reduce diesel dependency, lower CO2 emissions and extend the range of electric trucks. It oversees the integration of swappable batteries in eTrailer systems, adapting its battery technology to work seamlessly within the eTrailer concept.
They provide prototype models and essential technical data, which will be invaluable in designing the battery-swapping stations.
Abdullah Jaber, CEO of Trailer Dynamics, notes: "With this project, Trailer Dynamics highlights its first-mover strategy in the field of the eTrailer ecosystem. Battery swap technology has the potential to maximise the uptime of our vehicles and reduce CO2 emissions throughout Europe."
Advanced battery technology from CATL
As a global leader in battery technology, CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd) brings its advanced expertise to the project, supplying the electrochemical know-how and battery systems to ensure the initiative's success.
With extensive experience in battery design, manufacturing and application, CATL is essential to implementing reliable and efficient battery-swapping solutions.
"We're excited to combine our technology and experience with the industry knowledge and operational expertise of DB Schenker and Trailer Dynamics to accelerate the transition to emission-free transportation in Europe."
A united vision for zero-emission transport
The partnership among DB Schenker, Trailer Dynamics and CATL highlights a powerful commitment to electrifying Europe's transport sector, setting a strong precedent for the industry.
By aligning their expertise, the trio are advancing an initiative that promises to redefine the logistics landscape with a zero-emission, battery-swapping solution.
In the coming months, more logistics, energy supply and service provision partners are expected to join this expanding project, signalling further support for an industry-wide shift to sustainable transportation.
DB Schenker, Trailer Dynamics and CATL's combined efforts highlight their dedication to innovation and pave the way for broader adoption of clean energy solutions in heavy-duty logistics.
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