100% electric transport through a unique collaboration with Bouwvervoer and Shell Recharge Solutions

100% Electric Transport for Building Materials

The climate agreement stipulates that, by 2025, at least thirty Dutch cities will have a zero-emission zone. To enter these zones, vehicles must be fully electric or powered by hydrogen. The goal is to achieve emissions-free road traffic by 2050. This is a strong enough reason for the Brabant-based company MBI to start fully emissions-free construction transport.

MBI De Steenmeesters, Bouwvervoer, and Shell Recharge Solutions have joined forces to make a 100% electric truck operate as efficiently as possible. The electric truck can now be seen on Dutch roads. After each journey, the truck is recharged using a fast charger at MBI's Veghel location in North Brabant.

Charging Station Opening

On Wednesday, April 12, the first charging station at MBI was officially opened. This marks a first step towards sustainable transport for the construction sector. Over the past two weeks, the team has worked together to evaluate the possibilities and limitations compared to standard vehicles. A challenge with the use of the E-truck, as opposed to standard diesel trucks, is its range (approximately 250 km). The E-truck will thus operate with charging during the loading of freight from Veghel. In the future, there are plans to install charging stations at MBI’s other locations in Kampen, Aalst, and Nieuw-Lekkerland.

E-Truck

The driver of MBI's transport partner, Bouwvervoer, proudly transports 120 tons of MBI products daily with a 100% electric truck, painted in MBI colors. This transport is emissions-free and sustainable for both the environment and surrounding areas. There is no noise pollution during driving, loading, and unloading, thanks to the use of the electric crane. The Volvo FH Electric is equipped with all additional safety features according to Bouwvervoer standards, ensuring the driver’s safety. The powerful 498 kW (678 hp) engine ensures smooth transport. For Bouwvervoer, the 100% electric crane truck is a great complement to alternative fuels such as HVO100 and BioLNG. In this way, Bouwvervoer, together with MBI and Shell Recharge, is moving towards a CO2 and emission-free future.

The range and fast-charging capabilities of the Volvo FH Electric make it possible to have a regular working day without losing time. The truck is recharged during loading, and the loading crane recharges during driving, preventing unnecessary additional costs.

Fast Charger

The fast charger has been successfully installed at MBI's Veghel location, marking a milestone in sustainable transport for the construction sector. The Shell Recharge fast charger can deliver a DC output power of up to 300 kW with 2x HPC connectors and parallel charging of 150 kW per connector. With a foundation depth of 1 meter, a weight of 700 kg, and dimensions of 2m x 0.7m, the fast charger is robust and suitable for busy logistics and transport centers. This powerful charger delivers up to 240 kW of power to the Volvo FH Electric Truck, which has a battery capacity of 540 kWh. Prior to installation, Shell Recharge Solutions performed a route analysis and conceptual design. They ensured the charger would deliver sufficient power to meet the truck's daily operational needs. To ensure safety, the installation is equipped with collision protection in the form of a raised concrete base and bollards at the corners. A tilt sensor has also been installed in the charger to provide extra electrical safety in the event of an accident. The charger is connected to the Shell Recharge Solutions back office, which manages and maintains charging sessions, provides real-time monitoring, and handles payment processing. With this installation, Shell Recharge Solutions, in collaboration with MBI and Bouwvervoer, is paving the way for sustainable transport in the construction sector.

MBI Sustainability Policy

MBI’s mission is to work with partners to create a more beautiful, comfortable, and sustainable living environment when it comes to facades, streets, gardens, and interiors. Responsible business practices mean that MBI strives to be good for both people and the environment. This includes an active sustainability policy. This step towards emissions-free transport aligns with MBI’s efforts for a sustainable future.