#USA #Clarios #Connected Services #VARTA Automotive #Glendale, WI

Clarios Launches Connected Services for Commercial Fleets

Introduction

The automotive industry continues to evolve, with companies seeking innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Clarios, a globally recognized leader in advanced battery technologies, has recently announced the establishment of its Connected Services business unit, which has struck its first commercial agreement with a prominent European fleet operator. This partnership is centered around a groundbreaking product designed to significantly reduce idle times in heavy-duty vehicles, making it a game-changer for fleet management.

The Innovation Behind Connected Services

Initially unveiled at the IAA Transportation event held in Hanover, Germany, Clarios Connected Services underwent a successful pilot program alongside a commercial fleet customer in Europe. This pilot demonstrated the solution's effectiveness in minimizing unnecessary engine idling, which is not only a waste of fuel but also a contributor to carbon emissions. Thanks to the positive feedback and results from this pilot, Clarios is now ready to expand the deployment of this solution across the customer’s fleet, underscoring its viability and demand in the market.

Clarios' innovative product is crafted to deliver tangible economic benefits while simultaneously addressing vital environmental challenges. According to Federico Morales-Zimmermann, Vice President and General Manager at Clarios, this development marks a significant milestone. By cutting idle times, customers can save on fuel costs while also aligning with sustainability goals — a dual benefit that appeals to budget-conscious and environmentally aware fleet operators alike.

Major Environmental and Economic Benefits

One of the most significant revelations from the pilot program is the drastic reduction in fuel consumption realized through reduced idle times. Clarios data suggests that fleet operators can expect annual fuel savings of up to €1,300 per vehicle, along with a striking reduction of approximately 2,500 kg of CO₂ emissions annually for each vehicle. Such savings are invaluable, especially in the context of rising fuel prices and increasing pressure on businesses to meet environmental regulations. This solution not only lowers operational costs but also emphasizes the importance of understanding the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for fleet operators.

Collaboration and Continuous Improvement

The success of Clarios Connected Services is attributed to the collaborative efforts across various teams within the company, including contributions from its offices in Glendale, Wisconsin, and Hanover, Germany. Christina Yarnold, Director of Product Management, emphasizes the impact of teamwork and customer feedback in the product's development. By harnessing collective expertise and closely engaging with customers, Clarios managed to refine its solution to better meet evolving industry needs, ultimately leading to a product that exceeds customer expectations.

Moreover, the solution incorporates advanced analytics to provide real-time insights for fleet operators regarding battery and vehicle performance. This capability is particularly beneficial for heavy-duty vehicles equipped with sleeper cabs, ensuring passengers enjoy a comfortable experience while maintaining energy efficiency.

Future Outlook

As Clarios continues to innovate, the company is committed to remaining at the forefront of the commercial vehicle sector. Its Connected Services and multi-battery systems empower fleet operators to ensure their vehicles are equipped for future energy demands through state-of-the-art algorithms and real-time analytics. The company anticipates launching the new idle reduction solution in EMEA under the renowned VARTA Automotive brand in 2025.

About Clarios

With a workforce of approximately 18,000 and operations spanning over 100 countries, Clarios is dedicated to offering advanced, low-voltage battery technologies for a wide array of vehicles. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its operations, which aim to ensure that all products are recyclable while also maintaining an impressive recycling rate of 8,000 batteries per hour. As a Brookfield portfolio company, Clarios is positioned to lead the charge in creating eco-friendly solutions for the automotive industry.

In a world increasingly focused on efficiency and sustainability, Clarios’ Connected Services initiative represents a vital step towards a greener and more cost-effective future for commercial fleets.