BGL and Depotcharge launch joint electric truck charging network

The German Federal Association for Freight Transport, Logistics and Disposal (BGL) and Depotcharge want to establish a nationwide charging network for electric trucks. To this end, logistics companies are to open up free charging points at their depots to other fleets.

Depotcharge managing directors Joscha Specks (l.) and Julius Wilhelm.

Image: Depotcharge GmbH

The BGL, which represents around 7,000 companies organised in its regional associations, is using the Depotcharge platform to create a charging network for its members. Logistics companies can make their spare charging capacity available to other fleets while also accessing charging points from other participants. Operators themselves set the prices, access rules, and availability. Depotcharge handles access control, billing, and payment processing, among other tasks. The platform is designed to work independently of charging hardware, backend systems, and vehicle manufacturers.

According to the Munich-based startup, more than 200 companies with around 600 electric trucks have registered. Additional reach is provided by E.L.V.I.S. AG: the purchasing group, which has over 250 partner companies at more than 350 locations, plans to integrate its members into BGL Charge.

Depotcharge has already introduced this concept in Switzerland. There, the commercial vehicle association ASTAG uses the platform since May for ASTAG Charge, enabling its members to share their charging infrastructure with one another. This association model is now being transferred to Germany with the BGL. Depotcharge itself was already available in Germany beforehand.

In parallel, the company aims to continue expanding. Within the next two years, it plans to establish a charging network for electric freight transport in the DACH region and the Benelux countries, together with association partners. To this end, Depotcharge has completed a pre-seed funding round (link in German) of €2.7 million. The lead investor is the High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF), with additional participation from xdeck Ventures, Kopa Ventures, Prequel Ventures, and several business angels.

The capital will be used to fund international expansion and further development of the platform. Planned features include reservation functions, open interfaces, and integration with existing transport management systems.

_Source: Info per email_