Gersthofen, Germany- Andreas Schmid Internationale Spedition GmbH & Co. KG. is accelerating its transition toward sustainable logistics with the acquisition of two fully electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 trucks. The vehicles are already being used in regular long-distance transport operations, marking an important move from technology trials to practical and economically viable electric freight deployment.
The company has also included five additional electric trucks in its investment plan for the current year, further strengthening its commitment to alternative drive technologies and lower-emission transport solutions.
Mr. Thomas Schledorn, Executive Board Member of Andreas Schmid Group, said, “The key question is no longer whether e-trucks work from a technical perspective. The key question is where they can be used reliably and economically. On defined long-distance routes, such as our night line from Gersthofen to Neuenstein in Central Germany, we can already demonstrate that electric mobility in heavy-duty transport is plannable, practical, and increasingly economical.”
The Gersthofen–Neuenstein night route, which covers nearly 800 kilometers, is the longest night line operated by Andreas Schmid Group. This makes it a demanding real-world application for testing the suitability of battery-electric trucks in long-distance freight transport.
A key factor supporting the business case is Germany’s extended toll exemption for zero-emission heavy commercial vehicles. Under current regulations, the exemption is valid until June 30, 2031, providing logistics companies with greater planning security for investments in battery-electric trucks.
Electric trucks were initially viewed mainly as a solution for innovation and sustainability. However, operational economics are now becoming a major factor in fleet electrification. For logistics operators, the success of electric trucks depends on predictable routes, charging infrastructure, electricity costs, vehicle utilization, and supportive regulatory conditions.
For Andreas Schmid Group, the night line is particularly suitable for electrification because it follows a predictable daily schedule. This allows charging processes to be integrated into existing logistics operations without major disruption.
“As a medium-sized company, we cannot invest in symbolism. We need solutions that work in everyday operations,” Schledorn added. “The toll exemption is an important part of this equation. It significantly improves the business case and accelerates the transition to economically viable regular operations.”
The investment in electric trucks forms part of Andreas Schmid Group’s broader sustainability strategy. In 2026, the company became one of the first logistics providers in the Swabia administrative district to receive EMAS certification, aligning its environmental targets with a recognized European environmental management system.
The group has already implemented several sustainability measures across its operations, including photovoltaic systems at logistics sites, the use of alternative fuels such as HVO100, and digital solutions for emissions tracking.
With the deployment of the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600, Andreas Schmid Group is expanding its low-emission transport capabilities while gaining valuable operational experience for the future transformation of its fleet.
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