From dealership to premium powerbank – we’re on our way!

The pilot has started! PACCAR Parts Europe (PPE) is testing out an ingenious microgrid that’s designed to allow dealers to optimize energy costs, make best use of solar and grid power, and offer super-fast charging for DAF and non-DAF electric vehicles.

The first trial began last year on the premises of a DAF Electric Truck Center (DETC) in the Netherlands that was already equipped with 750 solar panels. PPE installed a 480 kWh Energy Storage System, an Energy Management System (EMS), and three super-fast charger outlets with a maximum output of 360 kW – two in the workshop and one semi-public charge point outside that all passing electric truck and car drivers can use.

All being well, the system will provide enough power to charge a New Generation DAF XF Electric to 80% in only half an hour. 

Energy trading

Kick-off for the charging points was in December 2023. Since then, the project has moved to the next phase, with PPE focusing on smart energy management for energy optimization. In the coming weeks, the system will be automatically checking a range of factors from hours of sunshine to peak demand times on the national grid, and overall energy usage. By storing energy locally in the Energy Storage System when tariffs are low and using – or selling back – stored energy during peak demand and peak tariffs, the dealer can cut his costs. He can also make best use of the power generated by his solar panels. The ESS supplier expects the dealer to have a return on his investment in five to seven years.

Beating net congestion

By switching between his microgrid and the national grid, the dealer will be able to ensure consistent power for his customers, without turning off the lights in his offices. Ultimately, a smart microgrid provides part of the answer to the increasing problem of net congestion – an overloaded national grid that’s holding back businesses and making environmental targets difficult to achieve.

Smooth transition

The microgrid supports PPE’s strategy to be the one-stop shop for EV customers. But the company’s vision goes far beyond that. The hope is that the system can play a part in encouraging dealers and customers to switch from diesel to electric power. When will we know more? Rob van Erp, PPE’s Manager Innovation and Strategic Programs is giving nothing away. “Our focus is on this first pilot. We’re building a revolutionary microgrid, so you can expect more from us,” he says.