On a 1,500km long-haul route
With a clear commitment to sustainable logistics, Vandijck Transport has successfully tested the all-electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 on a journey spanning over 1,500km. The family-run Belgian transport company, based in Herentals, is leading the way in transitioning to battery-electric heavy goods vehicles.
The test took place ahead of the delivery of two production models of the eActros 600, which Vandijck Transport ordered in early 2024. These are expected to arrive in the second quarter of 2025, making the company one of the first in Belgium to adopt the next generation of electric freight transport.
A test drive with real-world demands
To fully understand the capabilities of the eActros 600, Managing Director Guy Vandijck took part in the drive alongside a professional Daimler Truck Belgium Luxembourg driver. The journey stretched from Belgium to Zurich, Switzerland, and covered a total distance of 1,530 kilometres under varied conditions.
This was not just a symbolic demonstration. The route was carefully analysed in advance, considering factors such as altitude changes, vehicle load, energy consumption scenarios, and the availability of charging stations. The test reflected a real-life operational environment, ensuring the results would apply to day-to-day logistics.
With a gross vehicle weight of 33.2 tonnes, the eActros 600 proved it could easily handle long-distance transport. The truck travelled nearly 600km before requiring its first charge and completed the journey with 13 per cent of battery capacity remaining. This demonstrated the vehicle’s impressive range, even when hauling a heavy load across demanding terrain.
Impressive efficiency and comfort
One of the most noteworthy aspects of the test was the eActros 600’s energy efficiency. The vehicle recorded an average consumption of 96.3 kWh per 100km. The truck’s energy recuperation system, which recovers energy when driving downhill, was a key contributor to this efficiency. This system helped reduce consumption and enhanced the overall driving experience.
Guy Vandijck praised the vehicle’s comfort and handling, particularly the quiet drive and stability on the road. He noted that the absence of engine noise and the truck’s low centre of gravity—thanks to its battery layout—contributed to a smooth and enjoyable ride. “You hardly hear anything. The vehicle is quiet, stable and incredibly comfortable to drive,” he said.
Firsthand experience builds confidence.
What set this test apart was the direct involvement of the company’s leadership. Guy Vandijck took the wheel himself, choosing to experience the new technology first-hand. “As an entrepreneur, I want to understand the challenges of electric driving so I can support my drivers properly,” he explained. “I don’t want them to feel pushed into something unfamiliar.”
By personally testing the eActros 600, Vandijck sets an example for his team and builds trust in the company’s direction. He plans to accompany drivers on their first electric transport missions to ease the transition and build confidence. According to him, the experience was valuable from a technical perspective and helped boost morale among staff.
Preparing for real-world use
Vandijck Transport has ordered two eActros 600 trucks to serve different roles within the company’s operations. One vehicle will handle regional shuttle transport between Limburg and Antwerp, while the other will be dedicated to international freight runs to Zurich. This dual deployment approach will allow the company to gain broad operational experience with electric heavy trucks.
Manager Nathalie Vandijck highlighted the growing demand for greener logistics from customers. “Large companies are increasingly asking for environmentally friendly alternatives. The transport sector is key to achieving meaningful change,” she said.
Client feedback has already been positive. The Swiss customer who received the delivery during the test drive expressed satisfaction with the company’s sustainability efforts. “Our customers are pleased to see that we’re taking real action and investing in clean transport,” said Guy Vandijck.
Building the infrastructure for the future
Despite the test’s success, there are still challenges ahead. The limited availability of public charging stations for heavy-duty electric trucks remains a concern. However, Vandijck Transport is proactively addressing this by planning to install its charging infrastructure.
The company intends to invest in DC fast chargers and solar energy systems to support its growing electric fleet. Charging stops will be integrated with scheduled driver breaks whenever possible, optimising time and resources.
This forward-thinking approach underlines the company’s long-term vision. By focusing on vehicles and supporting infrastructure, Vandijck Transport is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable freight solutions.
A roadmap for greener logistics
The eActros 600 test drive marks a significant step in the company’s green transition. With its blend of performance, efficiency and driver comfort, the vehicle has proven itself as a viable alternative to diesel trucks for long-distance transport.
As Vandijck Transport prepares for the arrival of its production units, the team is already looking ahead. The company’s embrace of electric vehicles and its commitment to driver engagement and infrastructure investment set a new benchmark for the logistics sector in Belgium and beyond.
With the transport industry under increasing pressure to reduce emissions, Vandijck Transport’s initiative offers a glimpse into what the future of freight could look like—quiet, clean and driven by innovation.
Image: With a gross vehicle weight of 33.2 tonnes, the eActros 600 proved it could easily handle long-distance transport. Credit: Vandijck Transport
