Future Heavy-Duty Charging Infrastructure for Electric Trucks Across Europe in 2025

The European market is witnessing a significant shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), with a growing focus on heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs). Aral Pulse is expanding its EV charging network, aiming to establish high-capacity hubs at key logistics centers in Germany for HDVs.

This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency and minimize charging delays. Real-time route planning, booking systems, and seamless connectivity will play a crucial role in this deployment of digital infrastructure.

The potential cost savings of electric trucks are also compelling. A study by PwC predicts that by 2030, electric trucks will have a total cost of ownership (TCO) that is 30% lower than their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts.

The adoption of electric HDVs is on the rise. The European market for HDVs saw a 4% share of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) in Q3 2024, up from 3.2% in Q1. This growth is evident not only in trucks but also in buses and coaches.

Several companies are leading the way in HDV charging solutions. Circle K has developed multi-use charging stations for HDVs and passenger EVs, with a strong presence in Scandinavia and a focus on remote regions. Iberdrola has implemented chargers at the Disfrimur logistics base in Spain, adopting ultra-fast charging technology for HDVs.

The Megawatt Charging System (MCS) is a game-changing innovation in HDV charging, capable of delivering up to 3.75 MW of power for ultra-fast charging of large batteries. Companies like Shell, Uno-X, and Milence have deployed charging stations using this technology, supporting key logistics routes.

Strategic deployment of charging stations along key logistics routes is crucial. For instance, the majority of charging hubs for HDVs are concentrated along major motorways, forming diagonal routes from the north of Sweden to the south of France. Recharge and Gofast focus on high-capacity charging stations along these major highways in the Nordics and Switzerland, respectively.

Collaborative opportunities in the deployment of HDV charging solutions are available, with the potential for companies to play a leading role in this emerging market. Investments exceeding €15 billion, supported by public-private partnerships and regulatory frameworks, present opportunities for companies to lead in the emerging HDV charging market.

However, success in this field requires more than just infrastructure. Ensuring grid capacity and a strong regulatory framework while building stakeholder trust remains critical. Gito is pioneering HDV charging hubs in Sweden, aiming to close the infrastructure gap in underserved areas. Countries like France, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway are leading the deployment of HDV charging infrastructure.

By 2030, Europe aims to have approximately 100,000 public charging points to support long-haul electric trucking, with a focus on highways. Technological advancements, such as the Megawatt Charging System (MCS), will enable ultra-fast, high-capacity charging, reducing downtime for long-haul transport.

This transition towards electric HDVs and the accompanying charging infrastructure is a significant step towards a more sustainable and efficient European transport network.

Future Heavy-Duty Charging Infrastructure for Electric Trucks Across Europe in 2025