Trailer Dynamics secures €25 million loan from EIB
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has granted Trailer Dynamics a €25 million loan, backed by the EU’s InvestEU program. This funding will enable the German company to commercialise its innovative trailer technology. The eTrailer, developed by the Aachen-based firm and previously featured here, is a semi-trailer equipped with its own electric powertrain. This system adapts to the driving behaviour of the coupled tractor unit, reducing the load on the tractor’s propulsion system—regardless of whether the tractor is diesel, gas, battery-electric, or hydrogen fuel cell-powered.
When paired with a diesel tractor unit, the electrified trailer is reported to cut fuel consumption by up to 40%. When combined with electric tractor units, eTrailers could extend their range from approximately 400 to 700 kilometres. These claims are supported by extensive real-world tests, including trials with DB Schenker, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW.
Trailer Dynamics positions its solution as a means to rapidly reduce emissions, recognising that diesel-powered vehicles will remain in use for the foreseeable future. “Trailer Dynamics’ solution enables operators to act now, bridging the truck electrification gap, reducing emissions from existing diesel fleets while extending the capabilities of new electric trucks.”
EIB Vice-President Nicola Beer states: “The energy transition cannot wait — it needs solutions that deliver real impact today and compete head-on with fossil-based methods. Trailer Dynamics’ e-trailer technology does exactly that: cutting emissions, reducing fuel costs, and extending electric truck range without compromising on performance or affordability. By backing this innovation, we’re helping Europe accelerate towards cleaner, smarter freight transport.” The EIB loan is backed by the InvestEU program, which aims to mobilise over €372 billion in private and public investments for new technologies across Europe by 2027.
“We are genuinely excited to join forces with the European Investment Bank and to have their support behind our electrified trailer technology,” said Michael W. Nimtsch, CFO of Trailer Dynamics. “The funding provided by the EIB represents a strong vote of confidence in our mission and will play a crucial role in scaling our solution across Europe. This partnership is more than a milestone for us — it’s a meaningful step toward accelerating decarbonisation across commercial transport and proving that cleaner freight is within reach.”
Stefan Binnewies, Chairman of the Advisory Board at Trailer Dynamics, added: “This partnership with the European Investment Bank demonstrates how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. The EIB’s funding enables us to scale our technology faster and make a tangible contribution to reducing emissions in road freight. It’s an encouraging signal that Europe is ready to lead in the decarbonisation of transport.”
Technically, each eTrailer features an electrified axle powered by two electric motors. Lithium iron phosphate batteries store onboard energy to support the powertrain and optimise energy efficiency. At the heart of the system is Trailer Dynamics’ intelligent powertrain control, which monitors and manages the electrified axle in real time.
This article was first published by Cora Werwitzke for electrive’s German edition.
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