Contargo Bolsters Sustainable Logistics in Germany
The German transport company Contargo has taken a significant step towards its goal of achieving CO2 neutrality by 2045 with the deployment of 33 new DAF XD Electric trucks. This recent acquisition, delivered by DAF Trucks around late January 2026, increases Contargo's total electric fleet to 90 units, marking one of the largest simultaneous handovers of battery-electric trucks in Germany.
The new electric tractor units are being integrated into operations across 15 Contargo locations in Germany. They are primarily designated for short-haul container transport, particularly for last-mile movements within combined transport chains that link road, rail, and inland waterways.
Advanced Technology for Emission-Free Transport
The DAF XD Electric trucks delivered to Contargo are FT 4x2 tractor units, equipped with a powerful 350 kW electric motor. Powering these vehicles are five lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery packs, providing a substantial total capacity of 525 kWh. These LFP batteries are notable for being cobalt- and nickel-free, offering a long service life and the ability to be fully charged without restrictions.
With this configuration, the trucks boast an impressive 'zero emission' range of over 500 kilometers on a single charge. For rapid recharging, the DAF XD Electric supports DC fast-charging at up to 325 kW, enabling a charge from 0 to 80% capacity in just over 45 minutes. The vehicles also feature a Sleeper High Cab, enhancing driver comfort.
Strategic Investment in Decarbonization
This significant fleet expansion is a key component of Contargo's broader decarbonization strategy, which aims for climate neutrality by 2045. The company's commitment to electric transport dates back to 2019, when it first integrated two DAF CF electric trucks into its fleet for testing. Michael Starke, Managing Director of Contargo Truck Fleet GmbH & Co. KG, stated, 'The handover of the 33 DAF Electric trucks is an important step for us in further expanding zero‑emission transport. The XD Electric shows how sustainability, safety, and efficiency can be perfectly combined with great driver comfort.'
A substantial portion of this investment has received support, with 86 of Contargo's 90 e-trucks, along with their associated charging infrastructure, being subsidized by the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) under the KsNI funding scheme. To support its growing electric fleet, Contargo is also developing a private charging network, with plans for 90 charging points across 15 locations in Germany. Currently, 22 charging points at seven locations are already operational.
Future Outlook for Sustainable Transport
The deployment of these advanced electric trucks underscores Contargo's proactive approach to environmental responsibility within the logistics sector. By investing in state-of-the-art electric vehicles and robust charging infrastructure, Contargo is actively working to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future for freight transport in Germany and beyond. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to transition towards climate-neutral economies, with Germany itself targeting climate neutrality by 2045.
5 Comments
Africa
What about the environmental cost of battery production and disposal? Not so 'zero emission' then.
Bermudez
While the move to electric is commendable for reducing local emissions, we must also consider the source of the electricity. If it's not from renewables, the overall carbon footprint might not be as low as advertised.
Habibi
Contargo's goal for 2045 is ambitious and sets a good example for the industry. However, focusing solely on electric trucks might overlook other potentially viable decarbonization strategies like hydrogen or advanced biofuels for specific transport needs.
ZmeeLove
Zero emissions and long range? These DAF trucks sound incredibly efficient.
Muchacho
The range and fast-charging capabilities of these DAF trucks are impressive for short-haul logistics. Still, scaling this up for all freight transport across Germany will require an even more robust and widely distributed charging network than what's currently planned.