MAN and VEGA advance intermodal electric truck delivery strategy

MAN and VEGA report progress on an intermodal delivery model using rail and MAN eTGX electric trucks, highlighting CO₂ reductions and upcoming fleet expansion.

MAN Truck & Bus is advancing its decarbonisation efforts by expanding an intermodal delivery model that combines rail transport with fully electric MAN eTGX trucks. Together with its long-standing partner VEGA International, the company now relies on a logistics chain in which the main leg of the journey is completed by rail, while the “last mile” is handled locally emission-free. This combination already enables annual savings of around 2,700 tonnes of CO₂.

The core of the system is the connection between MAN’s Krakow production plant and VEGA’s rail terminal in Rheine, where new trucks arrive via the LionXpress service. VEGA uses its patented r2L technology, which allows high trucks and previously non-craneable semi-trailers to be loaded onto trains. Since the start of the project in June 2023, more than 11,000 trucks have been transported by rail, saving around 6,000 tonnes of CO₂. Across both LionXpress routes, total emissions savings have exceeded 10,400 tonnes.

The final stage of delivery—around 30 to 40 new trucks per week—is carried out by two MAN eTGX vehicles within a radius of up to 300 kilometres from Rheine. Real-world operation has confirmed the strong range capabilities and daily suitability of the eTGX, prompting VEGA to expand its electric fleet. Ten additional eTGX units will enter service in 2025, followed by a further 20 to 30 by the end of 2026.

Both companies connect the project to long-term climate goals. MAN’s “Electrifying Outbound” initiative aims to reduce CO₂ emissions in vehicle delivery logistics by 30 per cent by 2030. VEGA plans to make its entire outbound logistics chain for commercial vehicles CO₂-free by the same target year, investing heavily in charging infrastructure, solar installations and the transition to electric and hydrogen-powered fleets.

Looking ahead, the role of the eTGX will expand beyond MAN’s outbound deliveries. VEGA will also deploy the electric trucks for the pre-transport of trailers from its customers KRONE and Schmitz to the rail terminal in Rheine. This aligns with the sustainability strategies of both trailer manufacturers, who are actively developing low-emission technologies and modernising their product ranges.

The MAN–VEGA collaboration demonstrates how electric traction, innovative rail-loading technology and consistent climate strategies can reshape commercial vehicle logistics. Early operational experience confirms the viability of the concept, and the upcoming expansion of the eTGX fleet may accelerate the shift towards electric delivery models across the European commercial vehicle industry.