Episode 15

Markus Bach provides exciting insights into the complex processes behind every charging session. Behind the scenes, numerous stakeholders and systems must work together—ranging from charge point operators and e-mobility providers to roaming platforms, payment service providers, and energy and software systems. When it comes to e-trucks, additional demands like dispatch, route planning, and transport management come into play. The key is orchestrating this complexity so that fleets can operate seamlessly and reliably.

At the heart of the conversation is the question of how to integrate electric truck charging into daily transport operations. To make this work, dispatchers need live data on state of charge, charge point availability, and actual available charging power. At the same time, charging times, delivery windows, driving and rest periods must all be factored in, and charging slots need to be reliably reserved. Software thus becomes the crucial link connecting charging infrastructure with logistics operations.

We also dive into the technological prerequisites for the continued rollout of e-trucks. While technologies like Megawatt Charging (MCS) are already available, grid connection capacities and the expansion of charging parks remain central challenges.

Furthermore, the discussion touches on standards, data quality, and interoperability. For e-trucks to charge reliably across Europe, simply knowing the location and availability of a charge point isn't enough. For effective route planning, details like parking space length and width, height limits, ground load capacity, and trailer accessibility must also be known. Simultaneously, interoperable reservation and booking systems are required so drivers can rest assured that a suitable charge point will be available at their scheduled arrival time.

Shared charging infrastructure is another key focus. Especially for logistics companies starting out with just a few e-trucks, sharing existing depot infrastructure can help increase utilization rates and drive down costs. However, the key to scaling remains the interplay of adequate charging infrastructure, reliable operational workflows, high data quality, and software that seamlessly connects the various systems.

Looking ahead to IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026, Markus Bach makes one thing clear: truck charging is not purely a hardware issue. The software behind the scenes ties together planning, reservations, energy management, and billing—making charging predictable, controllable, and scalable. By 2030, he envisions electric truck charging to no longer be an isolated, special process, but rather an effortless, standard component of digital and dynamic dispatch planning.
 

The IAA TRANSPORTATION Podcast is a production of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA).

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