MAN Truck & Bus collaborates with TUM on HoLa project
In the fast-evolving landscape of transportation, innovations in electric mobility are no longer a distant vision but a tangible reality. Companies like MAN Truck & Bus are at the forefront of this transformation, pioneering initiatives that not only enhance efficiency but also contribute to sustainability. This article delves into MAN's commitment to electric mobility through strategic partnerships and groundbreaking projects.
MAN drives innovation and electrification through strategic initiatives
MAN Truck & Bus is making significant strides towards a sustainable transport future, with a dual focus on innovation and electrification. Two key projects highlight this commitment: a strategic partnership with TUM Venture Labs and the launch of the first megawatt charging corridor for electric trucks in Germany.
Understanding the HoLa project: Megawatt charging transforming electric trucks
The HoLa project (High-Performance Charging in Long-Distance Truck Transport) is a pioneering initiative aimed at establishing a seamless network of megawatt charging systems (MCS) along Germany's A2 highway, connecting Berlin with the Ruhr region. The project's first public charging station has been inaugurated at Lipperland Süd, enabling MAN eTGX electric trucks to harness MCS technology effectively.
Several companies, such as Duvenbeck and Hillert, are already piloting routes with MAN's electric trucks. This not only underscores the feasibility of rapid charging and extended range but also enhances goods transport, even for urgent delivery services. Dennis Wirtz, fleet manager at Hillert, emphasizes that "electric trucks are silent and offer great potential for sustainable logistics." Meanwhile, Duvenbeck highlights the innovative collaboration and forward-thinking vision among companies and infrastructure providers.
The HoLa initiative, backed by the VDA and involving 13 industry partners, introduces MCS and CCS charging points at various locations. By 2026, MAN plans to deliver its first series-produced trucks compatible with megawatt charging, drastically reducing waiting times and aligning electric operations with traditional diesel transport.
As Dr. Frederik Zohm, member of the executive board and head of Research and Development at MAN Truck & Bus, points out, "megawatt charging will mark a turning point in long-distance logistics. Charging times will be so reduced that vehicles will be able to operate on long-distance routes without restrictions, comparable to current practices." This advancement will not only minimize emissions and noise but also allow electric trucks to operate freely. Consequently, Germany is positioned as a leader in long-distance electric transport within Europe.
Strategic alliance with TUM Venture Labs: fostering a deep tech ecosystem in mobility
At the Ultimate European Start-up Event held in Munich, MAN announced a strategic collaboration with TUM Venture Labs. This partnership merges industry, academia, and startups to accelerate innovation in mobility. By joining forces, MAN gains direct access to Europe's largest deep tech startup ecosystem, facilitating the integration of emerging technologies into its processes and products.
This collaboration aims to solidify Munich's status as a technological hub while promoting agile talent and knowledge exchange. Joint projects such as ATLAS-L4 (autonomous trucks) and NEFTON (heavy charging infrastructure) have already demonstrated the benefits of teamwork between research and industry.
Through this strategy, MAN can identify trends from early stages, enhance agile working methods, and advance in robotics and artificial intelligence. Furthermore, it accelerates cultural shifts within the company, attracting new talent and invigorating the organization. As Frederik Zohm states, "the interconnection between industry, startups, and universities is crucial for maintaining competitiveness in international innovation."
TUM Venture Labs and UnternehmerTUM are now recognized as Europe's primary support center for entrepreneurial initiatives, featuring twelve sector-specific laboratories dedicated to providing global programs. Startups, researchers, and established companies find a collaborative environment to experiment, grow, and implement disruptive solutions aimed at transforming transportation and mobility.
Future projections: collaborative innovation and electrification
For MAN Truck & Bus, the integration of talent, technology, and sustainability is essential for reshaping industrial mobility. Initiatives like the HoLa project and the partnership with TUM Venture Labs reflect a committed revolution that is already underway, positioning the company as a leader in the shift towards electric transportation.
- MAN is set to launch its first megawatt charging-compatible trucks by 2026.
- The HoLa project will significantly reduce charging times, aligning electric logistics with conventional diesel transport.
- Strategic collaboration with TUM Venture Labs fosters innovation through a deep tech ecosystem.
- Joint projects in autonomous driving and heavy charging infrastructure demonstrate successful industry-academic partnerships.
- Germany is emerging as a leader in long-distance electric transport, fostering sustainable logistics solutions.
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