VARTA Automotive Ventures into Heavy-Duty Connected Services with First Client Acquisition
In a notable advancement in the field of automotive technology, VARTA Automotive, a leading battery solutions provider under Clarios, has secured its first client for its innovative 'Connected Services' platform dedicated to heavy-duty vehicles. This breakthrough comes after a successful pilot program with a prominent European fleet manager, illustrating the platform's ability to effectively reduce idling times in heavy-duty vehicles.
The newly developed solution aims to cut unnecessary engine idling by an impressive 40%, significantly boosting fleet efficiency. The project's results predict annual savings of approximately €1,300 per vehicle in fuel costs, alongside a notable reduction in CO₂ emissions reaching up to 2,500 kg per vehicle each year. This dual benefit of economic savings and environmental impact showcases the growing demand for sustainable technologies within the transportation sector.
Officially launched at the IAA Transportation event in Hanover, Germany, in September 2024, the Connected Services platform was initially tested through a collaborative pilot project. The positive outcomes observed enabled VARTA to expand this service across more vehicles in the fleet, affirming the practical applications of this innovative technology. According to Theres Gosztonyi, Vice President of the Aftermarket division at Clarios, this milestone not only underscores the necessity for solutions that drive down costs but also signifies a step towards sustainable development in the automotive sector.
By minimizing idling periods, the solution reduces fuel consumption significantly, which not only supports fleet operators’ financial goals but also aligns with broader environmental objectives. It's essential for companies to monitor the total cost of ownership (TCO) of their operations, and this solution offers a crucial leverage point for enhancing operational cost efficiency.
The success of the VARTA solution is attributed to strong teamwork across Clarios’ departments, integrating insights from teams in both Germany and the United States. Christina Yarnold, the Director of Product Management for Connected Services at Clarios, highlighted the collaborative efforts involved: "Our progress is a testament to the powerful synergy of a united team. By combining the expertise of our colleagues in research and development with direct client feedback, we've swiftly developed a solution that surpasses their expectations. Together, we're steering technological advancements that address real-world challenges while improving user experience.
Tailored enhancements, including algorithm adjustments to account for solar panel energy contributions and hydraulic systems, have defined this client-focused solution. It also maximizes the advantages of Clarios' heavy-duty batteries under the VARTA brand, known for their robustness, high performance, and suitability for deep discharges, thereby meeting the demanding requirements of commercial applications.
Moreover, this new service provides fleet managers with real-time data regarding battery and vehicle performance, enhancing driver comfort and energy management efficacy. For heavy trucks with sleeper cabs, such reliable monitoring ensures driver comfort and safety without unexpected battery depletion, crucial for long-haul operations.
As Clarios continues to innovate with its connected services and multi-battery systems, it remains committed to leading the heavy-duty vehicle sector. The platform empowers fleet managers to navigate the future of vehicle energy needs through advanced algorithms and real-time analytics, thus contributing to the industry's digital transformation. Clarios envisions a widespread availability of this idling reduction solution throughout the EMEA region under the VARTA brand by 2025.
Clarios stands as a global leader in advanced low-voltage battery technologies, supplying power solutions that support nearly all types of vehicles. With approximately 18,000 employees across over 100 countries, it provides deep expertise and reliability to aftermarket partners and OEMs alike, all while prioritizing sustainability. Clarios is committed to ensuring every product is recyclable, actively recycling around 8,000 batteries every hour within its network, illustrating a strong dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices in the automotive industry.