- MAN demonstrated real-world bidirectional charging using a 480 kWh electric truck in Germany.
- The technology enables cost savings and new revenue streams through grid and site energy integration.
On April 24, MAN Truck & Bus presented a real-world demonstration of bidirectional charging at a logistics facility in Germany. The trial featured the battery-electric MAN eTGX truck equipped with a 480 kWh battery system, highlighting how heavy-duty electric vehicles can operate as both energy consumers and mobile storage units. This capability allows trucks to store electricity and discharge it when required, offering operational flexibility while supporting energy optimization within logistics ecosystems.
How Bidirectional Charging Expands Truck Utility
The technology enables multiple applications, including Vehicle-to-Site (V2S) and Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V), where stored energy in the truck battery can be utilized within company premises or transferred to other electric vehicles. These use cases can significantly reduce electricity costs by approximately 10–20%, translating into operational savings equivalent to nearly 20,000 km of annual driving. This approach transforms electric trucks into dynamic energy assets rather than standalone transport units.
Vehicle-to-Grid Opportunities for Fleet Operators
Another key application is Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), where trucks can supply electricity back to the public grid during peak demand periods or when energy prices are high. This creates a potential revenue stream for fleet operators while contributing to grid stability. By integrating logistics fleets into the broader energy network, bidirectional charging supports the transition toward a more resilient and decentralized energy infrastructure.
Real-World Testing Through SPIRIT-E Collaboration
MAN Truck & Bus is the first commercial vehicle manufacturer to test this technology under real operating conditions as part of the SPIRIT-E project. The initiative evaluates practical scenarios such as powering buildings overnight or charging other electric vehicles directly from a truck’s battery. These trials provide valuable insights into operational feasibility, efficiency, and scalability in real logistics environments.
Project Partners Driving Innovation
The SPIRIT-E project brings together leading organizations, including Technical University of Munich, Fraunhofer IEE, TenneT, and Shell through its SBRS division. These collaborations ensure comprehensive testing across infrastructure, grid integration, and operational logistics. The technology performs most effectively when trucks have sufficient idle time at depots, making it particularly suitable for structured fleet operations.
Key Bidirectional Charging Use Cases and Benefits
The following table outlines the primary applications and benefits demonstrated during the trial:
Bidirectional Charging Applications in MAN eTGX Trial
| Application Type | Function | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle-to-Site (V2S) | Power supply to logistics facility | Reduced electricity costs |
| Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) | Energy transfer between EVs | Operational flexibility |
| Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) | Feed energy to public grid | Revenue generation potential |
This demonstration confirms that bidirectional charging can redefine the role of electric trucks in logistics, enabling cost optimization, energy resilience, and new business models for fleet operators.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bidirectional charging in electric trucks and how does it benefit logistics operations?
Bidirectional charging allows electric trucks to both consume and supply electricity, transforming them into mobile energy storage units within logistics ecosystems. This capability enables trucks to power facilities, charge other vehicles, or supply energy back to the grid during peak demand. As a result, fleet operators can reduce electricity costs, improve energy efficiency, and potentially generate additional revenue streams while supporting grid stability and sustainability goals.
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