BASF Coatings, a leader in innovative surface solutions, and Koch International, an international logistics service provider, have successfully completed the testing phase of electric trucks for long-distance transport, marking a significant milestone in their sustainability journey. The successful test, covering over 10,000 kilometres, paves the way for the implementation of electric trucks in BASF Coatings' operational routes across several German locations. This is part of BASF’s broader strategy to integrate sustainable solutions across its value chain.

The comprehensive testing phase, which spanned four weeks, involved the transport of more than 2,000 tons of cargo. The data gathered during this phase provided valuable insights into the performance of electric trucks, particularly focusing on key metrics such as range, energy consumption, and charging times. These insights have helped shape the decision to transition to electric trucks, demonstrating their feasibility for long-distance logistics.

The results of the testing phase were highly promising. The electric trucks demonstrated a 45% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to traditional diesel trucks, signalling a significant step forward in sustainable logistics. Furthermore, the electric trucks required significantly less energy than their diesel counterparts, contributing to lower operating costs. This efficiency, combined with ecological benefits, makes electric trucks a viable alternative for long-distance transport, especially as both companies focus on reducing their carbon footprints.

Victor Kaupe, Head of Regional Transport Management & Logistics EMEA at BASF Coatings, noted, “The results of our pioneering test clearly demonstrated that electric trucks represent a promising solution for long-distance transport across our German locations. The operational handling is already feasible today, and with further advancements in charging infrastructure and truck technology, we are confident that this solution will be integral to our sustainability efforts.”

BASF and Koch International are committed to expanding the use of electric trucks in their operations. They plan to deploy additional electric trucks, expand to more European locations, and further enhance charging infrastructure to support the growing fleet. This expansion is in line with BASF’s commitment to sustainability, which remains at the core of its corporate philosophy.

Peter Hayn, Team Lead Fleet Management at Koch International, emphasized the importance of these advancements, saying, “The data, particularly concerning the range and energy consumption, is convincing. The electric trucks make a significant contribution to sustainability—benefiting both BASF and Koch International and reinforcing our shared commitment to integrating electric vehicles into our fleet.”

Both companies see the integration of electric trucks as an essential part of their long-term sustainability strategies. By reducing energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and operating costs, they aim to set a new standard in the logistics industry, demonstrating that green transportation solutions can be both economically and environmentally beneficial.

As the industry continues to evolve, BASF and Koch International’s collaboration serves as a benchmark for the future of sustainable transport, showing that electric trucks are not only a feasible option today but a necessary one for the future.