BASF Coatings successfully tests electric trucks to reduce CO2 emissions

BASF Coatings has successfully tested the use of electric trucks on long-distance routes with the international logistics service provider Koch International and has now implemented the sustainable transport solution at BASF Coatings for long-distance transportation. The efforts are part of the chemical company's broad-based sustainability philosophy to focus on innovative solutions for a sustainable future along the entire value chain. A series of tests carried out in advance and the resulting data laid the foundation for the decision. When selecting the vehicles, particular attention was paid to the design for long-distance transportation and the equipment with state-of-the-art technology. The test series covered more than 10,000 km and transported over 2,000 tons of cargo. The tests were carried out over a period of four weeks. The final analysis and evaluation included factors such as range, charging times and energy consumption.

Less energy, less CO2, lower costs

During the test period, it was shown that the average energy consumption of the electric truck led to a 45% reduction in CO2 compared to the diesel truck. In addition, the fuel consumption was significantly lower than that of comparable diesel variants. In addition to the efficiency and ecological benefits, economic advantages were also realized in terms of operating costs. The efficiency benefits identified were even further improved once the implementation phase had begun.

Electric trucks make a significant contribution to sustainable transport

"The results of our pioneering test between our three German locations on long-haul routes have clearly shown that electric trucks represent a promising solution along our entire value chain and that operational processing is already possible today. In view of further developments in terms of charging infrastructure and truck technology, it is only logical that we have adopted this practice in regular operations and can thus already reduce CO2 emissions in plant-to-plant transport today," says Victor Kaupe, Head of Regional Transport Management & Logistics EMEA, at BASF Coatings. "The available data, particularly with regard to the range and energy consumption of the electric trucks, is convincing. The vehicles therefore make a significant contribution to sustainability - both for us and our partners. The results encourage us in the continuous integration of electric vehicles into our fleet," adds Peter Hayn, Team Lead Fleet Management at Koch International.

Deployment of more electric trucks planned

Both companies are planning to build on the positive results. This includes the use of more trucks, the inclusion of further European locations and the expansion of charging infrastructures at the locations. "Sustainability is a central component of BASF Coatings' corporate philosophy. We develop environmentally friendly products and processes and implement sustainable practices in our businesses. Together with our partners such as Koch International, we take responsibility and develop innovative technologies and solutions that reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions, among other things," explains Dr. Markus Piepenbrink, Head of Sustainability at BASF Coatings