In early 2025, more than 100 pre-series MAN eTrucks have been deployed across Germany, Austria, Belgium, and the Netherlands by a range of logistics operators, including DB Schenker, Dachser, Duvenbeck, Dräxlmaier and Koopman. These heavy-duty battery-electric trucks have collectively travelled over 500,000 kilometres, providing early operational insights into their efficiency and real-world suitability for long-distance freight transport.
The pre-series vehicles are part of an initial batch of around 200 units produced ahead of MAN’s planned large-scale production of eTGX and eTGS models scheduled to begin mid-2025. MAN is using this early deployment phase to gather data on performance, energy consumption, and operational reliability under commercial conditions.
Performance and efficiency
- Daily mileage reached up to 800 kilometres with intermediate charging, highlighting the trucks' capability in long-haul operations.
- Average energy consumption across the early fleet has been reported at 106 kWh per 100 km, measured during winter temperatures.
- Compared to diesel trucks consuming around 27 litres/100 km, MAN estimates CO₂ savings of approximately 400 tonnes from the use of these vehicles, assuming operation on 100% renewable electricity.
MAN projects that each truck could save up to 1,200 tonnes of CO₂ over a 1.2 million kilometre lifecycle under the same green electricity conditions.
Range and modular battery concept
The eTGX model is designed with a modular battery system, offering configurations of four to six battery packs. This allows tailoring to a variety of applications:
- Maximum range of around 500 km with six packs
- Power options of 449 hp and 544 hp
- Availability of an ultra-lowliner configuration with high cargo volume capability for automotive logistics
Charging capabilities include standard CCS (up to 375 kW) and optional Megawatt Charging System (MCS) technology, allowing for rapid recharging during driver breaks.
Real-world deployment and feedback
DB Schenker, one of the early adopters, reports positive initial results: lower energy consumption than other electric trucks on similar routes, and reliable vehicle performance.
In addition to local freight use, MAN demonstrated long-distance potential through the “Polar Express” initiative, where an eTGX travelled 3,000 km from the Arctic Circle to Munich. The journey relied solely on public charging infrastructure, validating the feasibility of cross-border electric trucking under real conditions, including sub-zero temperatures.
Conclusion
MAN’s early deployment of electric heavy-duty trucks underscores a growing shift in the logistics sector toward zero-emission alternatives. The operational data from the 500,000 km covered so far contributes valuable insights on range, energy efficiency, and infrastructure compatibility—critical factors in meeting upcoming EU climate and transport targets under the AFIR Regulation (EU) 2023/1804 and the broader European Green Deal objectives.
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Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.
