Helsinki, Finland – A groundbreaking innovation initiative, the MACBETH (Multipoint megAwatt Charging for Battery Electric Truck Hubs) project, is set to revolutionize battery electric truck charging across Europe. Led by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, this project features real-life demonstrations of charging hubs to accelerate the electrification of heavy-duty transport. The ambitious goal is to establish a comprehensive European charging network for electric trucks by 2030.
Funded by the European Commission with a budget of €10 million, the MACBETH project runs from February 2025 to January 2029. It brings together a consortium of 19 leading European companies, universities, and research centers to address critical challenges in sustainable heavy-duty transport.
Advancing Megawatt Charging Systems for Logistics
The project’s core objective is to develop and demonstrate cutting-edge solutions for Megawatt Charging Systems (MCS) in multi-user charging hubs. The availability of MCS will fundamentally transform operations for long-haul and high-utilization heavy-duty electric trucks. The strategic aim is to create a robust and efficient charging network across Europe, supporting the widespread adoption of electric vehicles within the logistics sector.
Yancho Todorov, Senior Scientist and coordinator of the project at VTT, outlined the comprehensive scope: “To create a functional charging infrastructure, we need to investigate many aspects, including various charging hub designs, hardware systems, plug standards, safety-enabling robot technologies, as well as practical experiences of logistics companies in operating electric trucks. The project will also explore new business models for charging infrastructure.“
Real-World Piloting and Strategic Partnerships
The MACBETH project includes two large-scale demonstration pilots. These will test hybrid charging stations serving diverse users, including heavy and medium-duty professional transport vehicles, as well as private cars. Extensive research will be conducted into charging hub design, safety protocols, and operational efficiency during these trials.
Finnish company Kempower, a designer and manufacturer of fast-charging solutions for electric vehicles, is a key project partner. Ville Naumanen, Research Director from Kempower, highlighted their contribution: “We’re bringing crucial equipment and expertise to the table. Currently, megawatt charging infrastructure is very rare in Europe, and our technologies will be key to bridging this critical gap.“
Revolutionizing Charging with Robotic Automation
One of the cutting-edge technologies under study is the testing of a robotized charging arm. This innovation could significantly enhance the charging process by increasing safety in high-power charging systems. Netherlands-based Rocsys aims to develop a solution where truck drivers can rest while a robot manages the charging, potentially improving overall logistics efficiency.
Joost van der Weijde from Rocsys emphasized the multi-faceted benefits: “The robotised charging arm will not only free drivers’ time and increase productivity but also enhance safety. Currently, drivers must exit their vehicles, handle heavy charging cables, and interrupt their break time. By automating the charging process, we’re addressing critical ergonomic, operational, and safety challenges in electric heavy-duty transport.”
A Strategic Investment for Europe’s Green Future
The MACBETH project represents a significant investment in Europe’s sustainable transport future. Its initiatives directly support the European Union’s European Green Deal objective, which aims to reduce transport-related greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2050.
Research Professor Mikko Pihlatie from VTT underscored the project’s broader impact: “The MACBETH project is not just about technological innovation; rather, it prepares new charging solutions towards large-scale deployment. It is an important step towards reimagining the entire ecosystem of electric transport, from charging infrastructure to logistics operations. Innovation projects that combine research and piloting like this are essential for scaling and commercialising solutions. They help advance climate goals, create new business opportunities, and drive growth across Europe.“
