#Germany #Clarios #VARTA #Hannover #Heavy Duty

VARTA Automotive's New Initiative

VARTA Automotive, a leading name in battery technologies, has made significant strides in enhancing the operational efficiency of commercial vehicles. The company recently secured its first customer for its new connected services solution aimed at reducing idle times in heavy-duty vehicles. This landmark achievement follows the successful completion of a pilot project with a European truck fleet operator, which set the stage for this groundbreaking commercial partnership.

The Problem of Idle Time

Idle time in commercial vehicles often leads to inefficiencies and unnecessary fuel consumption. Recognizing this, VARTA has developed a sophisticated solution designed to minimize these idle periods. According to early data from the pilot project, the new system can cut idle times by approximately 40%. This isn't just a minor gain; it translates to substantial annual savings.

Remarkable Savings and Environmental Impact

With the newly implemented solution, fleet operators can expect to save around €1,300 in fuel costs per vehicle each year. Furthermore, the reduction in idle times is projected to result in a decrease of approximately 2,500 kg of CO₂ emissions per vehicle annually. These figures highlight the dual benefit of economic savings while also addressing environmental concerns—an essential aspect for today's sustainability-focused market.

Launch of Connected Services

The new initiative was initially introduced at the IAA Transportation event in Hannover in September 2024 and has already shown promising results. Having expanded the implementation based on feedback from the pilot program, the system is poised to be rolled out across more vehicles within the customer’s fleet. Theres Gosztonyi, Vice President of Aftermarket for EMEA at Clarios, remarked on the importance of integrating innovative solutions that not only help reduce costs but also contribute to sustainability efforts.

Seamless Collaboration

The successful development and launch of this solution reflect the robust collaboration within Clarios, involving teams across locations in the USA and Germany. Christina Yarnold, Director of Product Management for Connected Services, emphasized the critical nature of teamwork in addressing customer needs and fast-tracking product development. This collaborative energy has led to a solution that exceeds initial expectations and addresses real-world challenges faced by operators.

Continuous Improvement

To ensure that the service aligns closely with customer requirements, the solution has undergone continuous improvements. These include adjustments to algorithms that better account for energy contributions from various sources, such as solar panels and hydraulic systems. The technology also maximizes the performance of VARTA’s advanced AGM batteries, which are designed for durability and high performance—ideal for heavy-duty applications.

Enhanced Driver Experience

In addition to fuel and emission savings, the new offering provides real-time insights into battery and vehicle performance. This data is instrumental for fleet operators in managing energy use efficiently, enhancing driver comfort, and preventing unexpected battery failures, particularly in long-haul scenarios where comfort and reliability are paramount.

Looking Ahead

Clarios is set to maintain its leadership in the commercial vehicle sector with its innovative connected services and multi-battery systems. With this new solution, fleet operators can future-proof their energy supply through advanced algorithms and real-time analytics, contributing to the digital transformation of the transportation industry. The new system is expected to be made available in EMEA under the VARTA brand in 2025.

About Clarios

As the world's leading manufacturer of advanced low-voltage battery technologies for mobility, Clarios is committed to driving reliable, safe, and sustainable practices across its operation. With over 18,000 employees in more than 100 countries, the company is dedicated to innovation that meets the demands of today’s automotive landscape while prioritizing the planet’s health through rigorous sustainability efforts. Clarios strives to ensure that 100% of its products are recyclable, further enhancing its commitment to environmental stewardship.