Austrian logistics provider: in-house charging infrastructure is the key to operating electric trucks

Austrian logistics firm Gebrüder Weiss has integrated 14 Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 electric trucks into its fleet, deploying them across multiple sites including Vienna, Pöchlarn, Wels, Hall in Tyrol, and its headquarters in Lauterach. These vehicles serve both regional and long-distance transport needs, demonstrating versatility and reliability in various operational contexts. The company attributes much of this success to its early commitment to electrification and the suitability of the eActros 600, which meets the demanding range requirements of its network. A cornerstone of Gebrüder Weiss’s electric strategy is the development of its own charging infrastructure, addressing the current shortcomings of public charging options for heavy electric vehicles. The company has installed charging and energy systems at several Austrian and southern German locations, utilising renewable energy sources such as on-site photovoltaic panels or certified green electricity. This approach enables trucks to recharge during loading and unloading processes, minimising downtime and maintaining the punctuality and reliability expected by customers. Executives at Gebrüder Weiss emphasise that transitioning to electric mobility requires a fundamental shift in operational mindset, including enhanced planning, load management, and dispatching that incorporates charging schedules. The company plans to expand its charging network to further reduce dependence on external stations and aims to increase its electric fleet to 25 eActros trucks by the end of 2026. This expansion underscores its commitment to sustainable logistics and long-term investment in green transport technologies. From the manufacturer’s perspective, Daimler Truck Austria highlights the eActros 600 as a practical solution that has moved electric trucking from concept to reality, capable of handling not only distribution but also national and international long-haul operations. Success in this sector, according to Jens Tittel, Managing Director of Daimler Truck Austria, hinges on the availability of suitable vehicles, dependable charging infrastructure, and pioneering customers willing to embrace the transition to e-mobility. Gebrüder Weiss’s experience serves as a model for other logistics companies considering electrification.