Milence Secures €111M EU Funding for Alternative Fuel Infrastructure

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In a significant stride towards sustainable transport, a groundbreaking joint venture involving Daimler Truck, the Traton Group, and Volvo Group, known as Milence, has been chosen by the European Union to spearhead the development of alternative fuel infrastructure across Europe. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to transition to cleaner and more efficient transport systems, and it is poised to make a substantial impact on the logistics and transportation landscape.

The European Union has allocated a remarkable €422 million through the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility (AFIF) to support a total of 39 initiatives aimed at promoting cleaner transport solutions. Among these initiatives, the Milence project stands out with its ambitious goals and comprehensive strategy to enhance electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure throughout the continent.

The Milence scheme is set to make waves with its MILES (Mobility Infrastructure for Logistics – Electric & Sustainable) project, which has received a significant grant of €111,537,000. This project aims to revolutionise the EV charging landscape along the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), encompassing all nine major European transport corridors as well as critical urban hubs.

By 2027, the MILES project is expected to deploy an impressive array of 284 Megawatt Charging System (MCS) points and 264 Combined Charging System (CCS) charging points across 71 locations in ten EU member states, including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Poland. This extensive network will provide essential support for the growing number of electric heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs), enabling them to travel across Europe with greater ease and efficiency.

The AFIF initiative sends a clear and encouraging message to transport companies: sustainable trucking is not only feasible but is also the future of logistics. For those who have already made the leap by investing in electric trucks or are contemplating the transition, the support from the EU provides a vital boost of confidence to move forward.

Currently, Milence boasts 13 operational hubs across six countries, strategically located along routes that connect some of Europe’s most significant ports and logistics centres, including critical links from Antwerp to Duisburg, Malmö to Gothenburg and Stockholm, and Barcelona to Lyon. These hubs will be equipped with advanced charging infrastructure featuring 4 MCS recharging points of 1 MW or more, along with up to 4 CCS recharging points, each capable of delivering 400 kW. In addition to charging facilities, these locations will also offer battery storage, energy management systems, and smart grid solutions, marking a significant leap towards a fully integrated and sustainable transport network.

The MILES project places a strong emphasis on enhancing the overall driver experience, incorporating safe and secure parking facilities, improved amenities, and reservation options. The integration of reliable technology, renewable energy sources, and smart grid capabilities will ensure that drivers can recharge their vehicles swiftly and seamlessly, minimising downtime and maximising productivity on the road.

This ambitious project is co-financed by the Connecting Europe Facility of the European Union, demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering a sustainable transport ecosystem across Europe.

Anja van Niersen, CEO of Milence, expressed her enthusiasm and pride in the project’s selection, stating: “Being selected as a leading project and receiving a large share of EU funding is a testament to the remarkable progress Milence has made in just two years. It reflects the trust we’ve built in our ability to deploy Europe’s largest public charging network for heavy-duty electric vehicles.”

She further added, “The AFIF’s call is an important step towards making HDV charging hubs strategic pillars of Europe’s transport future. This is a continental mission, and working together is essential. I congratulate all funded projects and am happy to join forces in building a more sustainable future for Europe.”

The Milence initiative represents a critical piece of the puzzle in achieving Europe’s ambitious climate goals. As the continent strives to reduce carbon emissions and transition towards greener transport solutions, projects like MILES will play an essential role in shaping the future of logistics and transportation. With a robust network of charging infrastructure, the Milence project will facilitate the widespread adoption of electric heavy-duty vehicles, ultimately contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable environment.

As we continue to navigate the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, initiatives like Milence remind us of the power of collaboration and innovation in driving positive change. With the backing of the EU and the commitment of key industry players, the future of sustainable transport in Europe looks promising.

As we gear up for an electrifying transformation in the logistics sector, it’s crucial for stakeholders across the board—from transport companies to policymakers—to rally behind such initiatives. The Milence project is not just about installing charging points; it’s about creating a holistic ecosystem that supports the transition to electric mobility. The emphasis on safety, efficiency, and user experience in the MILES project is a blueprint for future developments in the transport sector.

Moreover, with the rapid advancement of electric vehicle technology and the increasing urgency to combat climate change, the timing of the Milence initiative could not be better. As Europe aims for ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the establishment of a robust electric vehicle charging network is fundamental to achieving these goals. The Milence initiative is a clear statement that the future of transport is electric, and it’s here to stay.

In conclusion, the Milence project, backed by significant EU funding, is set to revolutionise the landscape of heavy-duty electric vehicle charging across Europe. As the initiative unfolds, it will not only pave the way for a more sustainable transport network but also set a precedent for future projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and reducing emissions. The journey towards a net-zero future is a collective effort, and with projects like MILES, we are one step closer to realising that vision.

Stay tuned, Net Zero News Community, for more updates on this exciting journey towards sustainable transport and the innovations that will shape our future.