Energy Portal of Serbia

Category: News

  • Volvo Trucks – The Market Leader in Electric Trucks in Europe and North America

    Volvo Trucks – The Market Leader in Electric Trucks in Europe and North America

    Volvo Trucks is the leader in the heavy-duty electric truck segment (16 tons and above) in Europe for the fifth consecutive year. At the end of 2024, the company held a market share of 47 percent, and during the year, 1,970 electric Volvo trucks were registered in Europe. The five largest markets for Volvo electric trucks in 2024 were Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Switzerland. Volvo Trucks also maintains a leading position in North America, with a market share of over 40 percent in the heavy-duty electric truck segment in 2024.

    – We are proud to lead the transformation toward zero-emission transportation. We have an exceptionally broad range of electric trucks for regional, urban, and construction transport. Our next electric truck, which will soon hit the market, will be able to cover distances of up to 600 kilometers on a single charge, says Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks. – I want to thank all large and small transport companies who are pioneers and investing in electric trucks. I am proud that you have chosen Volvo as your partner on the path to zero-emission transportation. I also want to thank our dealers, suppliers, and colleagues within the Volvo Group.

    Volvo Trucks, a company that began serial production of electric trucks in 2019, now has eight electric models in its lineup and has delivered more than 4,800 electric trucks to customers around the world so far.

    – The presence of our electric trucks is growing rapidly. Our total fleet has surpassed more than 140 million kilometers in daily operations by customers worldwide. More and more electric trucks are being driven in new geographic areas, reducing emissions for our customers every day. It’s great to see that, adds Roger Alm.

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    Electric Trucks Make Up Only 1.3 Percent of the Total Truck Market in Europe – Acceleration Needed

    Photo: Volvo Trucks

    In 2024, electric trucks constituted only 1.3 percent of the total truck market in Europe. Wider adoption of electric trucks relies on several factors, including the expansion of the public charging network, increased electricity grid capacity, a more favorable total cost of ownership for transport operators, public procurement of zero-emission transport services, and a sustainable supply chain.

    – To accelerate the transition to zero-emission transport, it’s not enough to have electric trucks ready. According to our analyses, by 2030, we will need 40,000 fast chargers along European roads to support a total of 400,000 electric trucks. We also need more efficient economic policies to make the operation of electric trucks profitable for all transport companies, emphasizes Roger Alm. – We are in close dialogue with all stakeholders, because it is clear that much more needs to be done, and with a greater sense of urgency, to ensure an accelerated transformation.

    Volvo Trucks

  • Complete EV Charger Offer With New Schneider Electric Models

    Complete EV Charger Offer With New Schneider Electric Models

    Today, transportation accounts for 23 percent of global energy consumption, and buildings for 26 percent. Accelerating the transition to electricity and using renewable energy sources is essential to achieving net-zero emissions.

    By combining efficient EV charging solutions with software for managing power distribution, owners and managers can achieve sustainability goals, ensure reliability, optimize energy efficiency, and deliver a seamless user experience for EV drivers.

    Fast Charger Designed for Commercial and Industrial Buildings

    The new EVlink Pro DC fast charger is designed for commercial or industrial buildings and vehicle fleets.

    It provides quick, safe, and efficient charging, allowing you to reach 80 percent charge in just 20 minutes.

    The charging station combines energy efficiency with cost minimization while seamlessly integrating with energy management systems like EcoStruxure EV Charging Expert, offering intelligent distribution of available energy and real-time monitoring.

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    Key features of the new fast charging station:

    • Scalable power from 120 to 180 kW and future-ready technology for easy upgrades and modernization.
    • Reliability with independent certification, C4M corrosion protection, and operation in harsh conditions and extreme temperatures up to 50°C with no power degradation.
    • Enhanced built-in protection and emergency stop button for safer operation.
    • Sensors for vibration and water ingress, with real-time alerts in case of issues at the charging site.
    • Ease of use with vehicle identification that automatically starts charging when a registered vehicle is connected, enabling dynamic charging of two vehicles simultaneously for maximum energy efficiency.

    Schneider Electric

    Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

  • Sustainable Mobility Rooted in Innovation

    Sustainable Mobility Rooted in Innovation

    Foton, a global leader in commercial vehicles with an innovative approach to sustainable mobility, showcased its latest advancements at the Eco Forum in Herceg Novi and the Belgrade Car Show.

    The Foton eBus won the prestigious Vehicle of the Show award, reaffirming the company’s dedication to innovation, sustainable transport, and brand recognition in the electric vehicle (EV) market.

    During the exhibition, Foton attracted significant attention from visitors and industry professionals alike. The eBus demonstrated its advanced design, energy efficiency, and environmental advantages over traditional bus models. This recognition of quality is yet another indicator of the company’s global strategy to contribute to the development of sustainable mobility and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

    “Visitors to Foton’s booth had the opportunity to explore advanced charging solutions developed in Photograph: Bex partnership with Bexenergy. These solutions include intelligent charging systems that enable fast and efficient battery replenishment, optimize energy consumption, and help reduce operational costs for EV owners,” Foton representatives stated.

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    Their vision of sustainable transport is based on a combination of innovative technology, high performance, and reliability. For years, Foton has invested in research and development to make the electrification of commercial transport the norm rather than the exception. With a global presence in over 100 markets, Foton can develop vehicles tailored to diverse user needs while maintaining environmental considerations as a top priority.

    At the Eco Forum in Herceg Novi, the company presented several models reflecting this approach – two eView Grand models, along with the Tunland V9, Tunland V7, Tunland G7, and eAumark models. These vehicles exemplify modern transport solutions that combine cost-effectiveness, durability, and environmental friendliness. Featuring improved battery systems, higher efficiency, and reduced maintenance costs compared to conventional vehicles, Foton’s models provide tangible benefits to companies seeking to modernize their fleets and lower their carbon footprint.

    The event also served as an opportunity for dialogue with industry leaders, decision-makers, and partners shaping the future of sustainable transport, and participation in panel discussions.

    Foton’s models, such as the eAumark, prove that electric trucks are no longer just a concept for the future, but a real-world solution for companies aiming to optimize their operations.

    Foton’s presence at the Eco Forum in Herceg Novi is part of the company’s broader strategy to position itself as a leader in sustainable transport in the region. The Serbian and Montenegrin markets are particularly significant.

    Foton

    Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

  • World Environment Day – United Against Plastic Pollution

    World Environment Day – United Against Plastic Pollution

    The most important international day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of preserving our planet is World Environment Day, observed every year on June 5. This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972 and was first celebrated in 1973 under the slogan Only One Earth.

    This year’s observance focuses on the fight against plastic pollution. Data shows that more than 400 million tons of plastic are produced annually, with 11 million tons ending up in rivers, lakes, and oceans.

    A major concern is microplastics, which enter the bodies of humans and animals through water, food, and air. It is estimated that the average person consumes more than 50,000 plastic particles each year.

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    That is why this year’s World Environment Day joins the #BeatPlasticPollution campaign, led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The goal is to mobilize communities around the world to implement and advocate for solutions to this problem.

    This day serves as a call to action for all governments, companies, and citizens to take concrete steps to reduce plastic use and to enhance recycling efforts and the implementation of a circular economy.

    Energy portal

  • Farizon and the Future of Electric Commercial Vehicles

    Farizon and the Future of Electric Commercial Vehicles

    Photo: coutresy of Lazar Radinov

    The development of electromobility in Serbia presents numerous challenges and great opportunities for transforming the transport sector. Lazar Radanov Radičev, Director of Delta Auto Group, speaks about the potential of electric commercial vehicles, the advantages of the Farizon model, and the readiness of companies to transition to sustainable transport solutions.

    Q What are the key challenges and opportunities that Delta Auto Group sees in developing electromobility and sustainable transport solutions in Serbia and the region?

    A The low market share of electric vehicles represents significant development potential, especially in the light commercial vehicle segment, where purchasing decisions are based on cost-efficiency, unlike passenger vehicles, where decisions often involve emotional factors. Analysis shows that electric vehicles have clear advantages in the last-mile delivery segment, where vehicles travel up to 150 km daily, follow predictable routes, and are parked at company premises, making battery charging easier. As a result, range and public charging infrastructure become less relevant topics. In the case of the Farizon V6E, driving 150 km per day, 22 working days a month, we estimated savings of 25,000 euros over five years compared to a diesel vehicle. These savings come from lower fuel and maintenance costs—there’s no engine oil or most filters, and brake pads can last up to three times longer.

    Q Farizon is bringing a revolution to the segment of eco-friendly commercial vehicles. How do you assess its potential in the Serbian and regional markets?

    A We see no rational obstacles to the transition of urban delivery fleets and last-mile operators to electric vehicles. In this respect, Farizon has enormous potential in Serbia and the region. With the development of charging infrastructure and the broader availability of fast chargers, we believe intercity transport will follow this trend. Since the brand’s promotion in November 2024, and especially after the Auto Show in March, we’ve seen growing interest from companies in such solutions. Of course, additional consultations and time are needed for customers to choose the vehicle variant that best suits their needs.

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    Q What key innovations and technologies set Farizon vehicles apart from the competition?

    A Thanks to advanced technologies, Farizon offers greater road safety, lower maintenance costs, and optimal space utilization. The vehicle omits the traditional B-pillar, allowing the interior to be flexibly configured to meet various needs, resulting in more cargo space and easier access. There are also advanced safety features such as ASR (anti-slip regulation), AEB (automatic emergency braking), and TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system), all contributing to safer driving. Farizon also employs a drive-by-wire system, which improves vehicle handling by 300 percent and reduces braking distance by 10 percent.

    Q How ready are premium and luxury brands, such as Maserati, for a full transition to sustainable mobility?

    A These brands are actually leading the transition to sustainable mobility. The first electric model in Serbia was the BMW i3, conceived as a complete sustainability showcase: it was built using recycled materials, the factory operated on 100 percent renewable energy, and production involved 50 percent less energy and 70 percent less water consumption. Luxury brands see an opportunity in electrification not only for reducing emissions, but also for enhancing performance. For example, the gasoline Maserati Trofeo offers 550 hp and 0–100 km/h acceleration in 3.5 seconds, while the electric Maserati GranTurismo Folgore delivers 761 hp, an incredible 1,350 Nm of torque, and acceleration in 2.5 seconds. This and similar models also use new eco-friendly and composite materials, making the vehicle more efficient.

    Interview by Milena Maglovski

    The inteview was published in the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

  • The Baltics to Gain up to 600 New EV Charging Stations by 2027

    The Baltics to Gain up to 600 New EV Charging Stations by 2027

    Across the Baltic region, up to 600 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are planned to be built by the end of 2027. Given that this region currently lags behind the European Union average in terms of electromobility infrastructure, the project holds particular significance and will contribute to achieving the national energy and climate goals of the Baltic states.

    A portion of the stations will be installed along the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) corridors, further supporting the decarbonization goals of the transport sector defined within the “Fit for 55” package and the European Green Deal.

    The project is supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which approved a 60 million euros loan to the Ignitis Group – the leading energy company in the Baltic states.

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    Matteo Patrone, EBRD’s Managing Director for Banking, stated that this investment represents a major step forward for green mobility in the region and addresses one of the main barriers to the wider adoption of electric vehicles – the lack of accessible and reliable infrastructure.

    In 2024, the Ignitis Group tripled its charging network and aims to become the leading operator of fast EV chargers in the region.

    Energy portal

  • Assessment of Nuclear Power Plants in the Netherlands and Slovenia – Krško to Operate Until 2043

    Assessment of Nuclear Power Plants in the Netherlands and Slovenia – Krško to Operate Until 2043

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has conducted two important safety inspections at nuclear power plants in the Netherlands and Slovenia.

    In the Netherlands, an IAEA team visited the Borssele nuclear power plant in May to review the progress made in implementing recommendations issued during a previous mission in 2023. The plant, in operation since 1973 and responsible for around three percent of the country’s electricity generation, is currently set to operate until 2033. However, authorities are considering extending its lifetime to 2054, provided it can be done safely. The new report highlights that most recommendations have already been implemented, with remaining actions still in progress.

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    At the same time, a ten-day SALTO mission was completed at the Krško nuclear power plant in Slovenia, the country’s only nuclear facility, jointly owned by Slovenia and Croatia. Krško supplies as much as 40 percent of Slovenia’s electricity needs, and its operating license has been extended until 2043. The IAEA assessed that the plant is successfully implementing key measures to ensure safe long-term operation but emphasized the need to complete all remaining steps to fully align with international safety standards, according to World Nuclear News.

    The inspections are part of regular international reviews aimed at strengthening nuclear safety and supporting plant operators in maintaining the highest standards. Final reports for both plants are expected within the next three months.

    Energy portal