Let’s get familiar with the name Milence, as it is the official brand of the charging network created by Volvo, Traton and Daimler in 2021. As we know quite well, the target of the strategic alliance is to build 1,700 charging stations for heavy-duty electric vehicles in Europe in the next few years. As stated by the network a few days ago, Milence will initially focus on charging locations in the Netherlands, Germany, France, Belgium, Spain, Italy, Norway, and Sweden. With half a billion euros in initial funding, Milence can begin a rapid expansion to support and accelerate the transition to zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles in Europe and offer drivers a more comfortable and safe working environment.

Milence CEO van Niersen speaking

A reliable public charging network, designed for the needs of transport operators and drivers, is essential to making the electric transition move as rapidly as possible. “That’s why there’s no time to waste, and we must start ahead of the market with the rollout of at least 1,700 charging points in the next five years,” explained CEO Anja van Niersen.

According to Milence, within two to four years, battery-electric trucks will have a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) than diesel trucks for a broad range of transports, including long haulage. “In some cases the TCO for battery-electric trucks used for regional transport is already lower. Within a few years this will also be the case for long-haul trucks in many countries in Europe,” added Van Niersen. “With favourable EU regulations, lower costs of ownership, improved working conditions for truck drivers, and the rollout of a Europe-wide megawatt charging network, we expect battery-electric trucking to transform the road transport industry in the coming years.”

Highlights

Related articles