#Germany #Clarios #VARTA #Hannover #Heavy Vehicles

VARTA Automotive Launches Innovative Service for Heavy Vehicles

VARTA, a prominent brand under Clarios, has recently secured its first customer for a groundbreaking connected service aimed at heavy commercial vehicles. After a successful pilot project with a major European fleet operator, this new offering aspires to significantly reduce downtime associated with idling engines, marking a significant step for VARTA in the commercial transportation sector.

The innovative solution targets a 40% reduction in engine idling time, thereby enhancing fleet efficiency remarkably. Preliminary financial estimates suggest an annual fuel savings of around €1,300 per vehicle and a noteworthy decrease of approximately 2,500 kg of CO₂ emissions per vehicle each year.

Introduction of Connected Services in Hannover

This initiative was officially introduced at the IAA Transportation event held in Hannover, Germany, in September 2024. The initial pilot demonstrated the system’s capability to minimize idle time effectively, driving the decision to expand the solution across other vehicles in the client's fleet, thus cementing VARTA's reputation in connected services.

Theres Gosztonyi, Vice President of Aftermarket EMEA at Clarios, affirms that this achievement highlights the pressing demand for innovative solutions aimed at cost reduction while promoting sustainability. He emphasizes that not only does the service provide substantial fuel cost savings, but it also aligns with environmental goals, representing a win-win scenario for both clients and the planet.

Real Savings and Environmental Impact

The results from the pilot program indicate a significant potential for operational efficiency. By decreasing idle times, VARTA's solution effectively translates to reduced fuel consumption. Annual savings can reach up to €1,300 per vehicle, complemented by a substantial decline in CO₂ emissions, with around 2,500 kg saved each year. These benefits not only aid in fulfilling environmental targets but also highlight the importance of monitoring the total cost of ownership (TCO) for fleet operators.

Continuous Customer-Centric Solution Development

The success of this service results from ongoing collaboration within Clarios. Contributions from teams located in Glendale, USA, and Hannover, Germany, combined with regular feedback from participating fleet operators, have been instrumental in refining the service. Christina Yarnold, Director of Product Management for Connected Services at Clarios, emphasizes the importance of cohesive teamwork across departments. By leveraging input from research and development as well as direct engagement with clients, they have been able to enhance a robust solution that not only meets but exceeds expectations.

Further adjustments have been continually made to the system, including algorithmic updates to better account for influences from solar panels and hydraulic systems, ensuring it maximizes the capabilities of VARTA's AGM batteries. This advanced lead-acid battery type is well-regarded for its durability and efficiency in handling deep discharges, making it particularly suitable for heavy-duty applications.

Intelligent Data Analysis for Enhanced Efficiency

The new service allows fleet operators to access real-time data regarding battery and vehicle performance, significantly improving driver comfort and enabling effective energy management. For heavy vehicles equipped with sleeping cabs, reliable battery monitoring is critical in ensuring comfort and safety, especially during long operational hours to prevent unexpected power loss.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future

Clarios remains at the cutting edge of commercial vehicle technologies with its innovative offerings in connected services and multi-battery systems. This platform empowers fleet operators with forward-thinking energy solutions through the employment of advanced algorithms and real-time analysis, contributing to the digital transformation of the transportation sector. Clarios anticipates that its idle time reduction solution will be widely available across the EMEA region under the VARTA brand by 2025.

About Clarios

Clarios is the global leader in low-voltage battery technology for mobility, powering nearly every type of vehicle today, with one in three cars relying on its batteries. With a workforce of approximately 18,000 employees in over 100 countries, Clarios provides extensive expertise to its Aftermarket and OEM partners, contributing to safety and comfort in everyday life. The company is committed to sustainability, recycling eight thousand batteries every hour and ensuring that 100% of all products sold are recyclable. Clarios is a Brookfield portfolio company.