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ZEFES · Project

Zero-Emission Long-Haul Trucking Platforms and Digital Fleet Management Tools

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Imagine if long-distance trucks could switch between battery and hydrogen power as easily as changing a battery in a toy. This project builds a flexible system so heavy trucks can travel across Europe without worrying about where to plug in or refuel. It also creates a digital 'twin' of the trucks to predict when they need repairs before they break down.

By the numbers
43
partners
14
countries involved
84%
industry ratio in consortium
28
total deliverables
The business problem

What needed solving

Long-haul electric and hydrogen trucks are currently too expensive, unreliable, and lack the charging infrastructure needed for complex European supply chains.

The solution

What was built

Modular powertrain platforms for trucks and digital twin fleet management tools for predictive maintenance and route planning.

Audience

Who needs this

Heavy-duty truck manufacturersInternational logistics companiesCharging infrastructure developersFleet management software providers
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Logistics and Freight
enterprise
Target: Long-haul trucking fleet operator

If you are a fleet operator dealing with unpredictable charging times and range anxiety — this project developed digital twin tools and modular powertrains that improve energy efficiency and reduce charging times.

Energy Infrastructure
mid-size
Target: Charging and refueling station provider

If you are an infrastructure provider dealing with a lack of standardized heavy-duty charging points — this project developed a mapping of flexible charging and refueling concepts to support a rising number of zero-emission vehicles.

Automotive Manufacturing
enterprise
Target: Heavy-duty vehicle OEM

If you are a vehicle manufacturer dealing with high costs and low reliability of electric trucks — this project developed modular powertrain platforms that make long-haul BEVs and FCEVs more affordable and reliable.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

How does this project reduce the cost of zero-emission trucks?

Based on available project data, the project creates a pathway for BEVs and FCEVs to become more affordable through modular powertrains and improved energy efficiency.

Is this technology ready for industrial scale?

The project is executing real-world demonstrations of BEVs and FCEVs spread all over Europe to move zero-emission long-haul transport to the next level.

What are the IP or licensing options for the digital twin tools?

Based on available project data, specific licensing terms are not listed, but the project delivers tools for fleet managers regarding predictive maintenance and eco-driving.

How does the project handle cross-border regulations?

The project has established a specific working group on road permits (IDI/CEDR) to address dependencies in the logistics chain.

What is the timeline for the results?

The project period runs from 2023-01-01 to 2026-06-30.

How are the new powertrains integrated into existing fleets?

The project focuses on modular powertrains and flexible platforms to ensure they can operate within complex transport supply chains.

Consortium

Who built it

The consortium is heavily industry-driven with an 84% industry ratio, comprising 36 companies across 14 countries. This high concentration of commercial partners, coordinated by Vrije Universiteit Brussel, suggests the project is focused on immediate commercial viability and market integration rather than theoretical research.

How to reach the team

Contact Vrije Universiteit Brussel regarding the ZEFES project coordination

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to connect with the 36 industry partners involved in ZEFES.

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