Binnengekomen berichten februari 2026

In een elektrische Volkswagen speelt energieverbruik een directe rol in comfort en actieradius. Zeker in de winter is het verleidelijk om de interieurverwarming flink hoger te zetten, maar het verwarmen van de volledige lucht in de auto kost relatief veel energie. Warmetruiendag is een uitstekend moment om stil te staan hoe je er warmpjes bij kunt zitten in je Volkswagen door slimmer om te gaan met energie.

Gericht verwarmen werkt efficiënter
Veel modellen uit bijvoorbeeld de ID.-familie van Volkswagen zijn al dan niet standaard uitgerust met stoel- en stuurverwarming. Deze systemen verwarmen niet het hele interieur, maar richten zich direct op het lichaam van de bestuurder en eventuele passagiers. Het effect van stuur- en stoelverwarming is dat je lichaam sneller en natuurlijker opwarmt, en er ook aanzienlijk minder energie nodig is dan bij het inschakelen van de reguliere luchtverwarming. Dat komt niet alleen het rijbereik ten goede, maar sluit ook perfect aan bij de gedachte achter Warmetruiendag. Een extra voordeel is dat deze vorm van verwarmen vooral bij kortere ritten efficiënt is. Waar de interieurverwarming tijd nodig heeft om het hele interieur op temperatuur te brengen, zorgen stoel- en stuurverwarming vrijwel direct voor warmte op de plekken waar je die het meest ervaart.

Moet je elektrische auto toch worden opgewarmd, dan is het het meest efficiënt om dit te doen terwijl hij nog aan de laadpaal staat. Je gebruikt bij het voorverwarmen dan namelijk energie van het elektriciteitsnet in plaats van energie uit het accupakket van de auto. Dat betekent dat je comfortabel warm wegrijdt zonder extra impact op de actieradius: ideaal op koude ochtenden en het past goed bij een bewuste manier van omgaan met energie.

A total of around three hundred athletes from twenty-seven nations were registered for the event. Throughout the competition and in the days that followed, the task was to strategically relocate snow, transport excess quantities out of the arena and surrounding areas, and keep all traffic, athlete, and service zones safely accessible at all times, often under challenging winter conditions.

Engineered for Heavy‑Duty Winter Operations

The Mercedes‑Benz Arocs is purpose‑built for demanding work away from paved roads. Its robust frame design, powerful drivetrains, and diverse chassis configurations make it the ideal work tool for large‑scale winter events such as the Biathlon World Cup in Oberhof. High‑traction drive concepts, differential locks, and off‑road equipment enable safe and reliable operation even in snow, ice, and steep terrain.

Particularly when maneuvering on narrow access routes, in the stadium area, or on forest paths, the Arocs demonstrates its strengths: exceptional maneuverability, precise vehicle control, and ergonomics tailored to construction‑site use, all essential benefits during long operating shifts.

Flexible Rental Solutions via CharterWay

The Arocs vehicles in Oberhof come from the Mercedes‑Benz CharterWay rental fleet, a service offered by Daimler Truck Financial Services. CharterWay operates a nationwide fleet of around 6,000 commercial vehicles and provides flexible rental solutions ranging from short‑term deployments to long‑term rentals. Alongside conventional drivetrains, the portfolio also includes around 150 battery‑electric vehicles. The ongoing expansion of the electric fleet—featuring models such as the eActros 600—supports the company’s strategic positioning as an integrated “Truck‑as‑a‑Service” provider.

Biathlon World Cup in Oberhof

De familie Overkamp reist al tientallen jaren met attracties door Nederland, onder meer met de populaire grijpmachine Eclaw Cranes. Bij deze attractie proberen kermisbezoekers om met een grijparm een knuffel te winnen. Overkamp rijdt deze attractie nu met een nieuwe Volvo FH16 Aero-bakwagen het land door.

“Steeds meer gemeenten hebben strengere regels om de stad in te mogen”, vertelt Henk Overkamp. “De truck die we hebben vervangen, was 25 jaar oud. De Volvo FH16 Aero heeft de nieuwste Euro 6-motor en daarmee kunnen we weer jaren vooruit. Met deze truck mogen we zeker tot 2030 de stad in. Dat is belangrijk, want wij komen met onze kermisattracties in dertig tot veertig steden per jaar.”

Een thuis op wielen
De Volvo FH16 Aero is niet alleen krachtig, maar ook een thuis op wielen. In de opbouw is ruimte gemaakt voor opslag en een leefgedeelte. “We hebben er een bed en een douche in”, vertelt Overkamp. “Op de kermis overnachten we daarin.”

De Globetrotter XL-cabine biedt daarnaast veel ruimte en (rij)comfort. Zo is de truck uitgerust met leren stoelen en het elektronisch geregelde stuurbekrachtigingssysteem Volvo Dynamic Steering. “Volvo onderscheidt zich ook met de I-Shift-versnellingsbak. De truck schakelt fantastisch en dat helpt enorm om soepel te rangeren, draaien en keren. Voor ons werk is dat echt belangrijk.”

Veiligheid voorop
De nieuwe truck is voorzien van moderne veiligheidssystemen, zoals het Active Safety-pakket met uitgebreide veiligheidsfuncties, Adaptive Cruise Control, Volvo Engine Brake voor extra remkracht en Pilot Assist. Dit systeem helpt de chauffeur door automatisch afstand te houden tot andere voertuigen en de truck binnen de rijstrook te houden. Ook aan zichtbaarheid is gedacht: de truck is uitgerust met LED-verlichting met adaptief grootlicht, extra verstralers en een dodehoekcamera aan de passagierszijde. “Op een kermisterrein is het altijd druk en wil je zeker weten dat je alles goed kunt zien. De camera’s en de extra verlichting maken het rijden een stuk overzichtelijker.”

Eyecatcher
De Volvo FH16 Aero is een echte blikvanger dankzij het uitgebreide spuitwerk, dakspoiler, extra verlichting en de moderne uitstraling. Op de cabine prijkt naast de naam van de attractie ook de naam ‘Niglo’, een verwijzing naar een club van kermisexploitanten uit binnen- en buitenland met een gedeelde passie voor Harley Davidson.

Gemeenten bepalen onder welke voorwaarden openbare laadpalen geplaatst mogen worden. De uitvoering daarvan besteden zij meestal uit aan commerciële exploitanten via een concessieovereenkomst, waarin soms een maximumtarief of prijsplafond is vastgelegd. ANWB constateert dat de uiteenlopende lokale keuzes in deze concessies leiden tot grote prijsverschillen tussen gemeenten.

Automobilisten betaalden in 2025 gemiddeld 48 cent per kilowattuur (kWh) bij openbare, langzame laadpalen. Achter dat gemiddelde gaan echter grote verschillen schuil: in Nederweert bedroeg het tarief gemiddeld 33 cent per kWh, terwijl in Oegstgeest bijna 70 cent werd gerekend – meer dan het dubbele. Voor een automobilist die jaarlijks 15.000 kilometer rijdt, kan dat betekenen dat hij of zij in sommige gemeenten tot 900 euro per jaar extra kwijt is aan laadkosten, simpelweg afhankelijk van de gemeente waar hij of zij woont.

Gemeentelijke afspraken zijn doorslaggevend
In Brabant en Limburg, waar veel gemeenten samenwerken binnen de gezamenlijke concessie Noord-Brabant/Limburg, liggen de gemiddelde laadtarieven relatief laag. In gemeenten binnen deze provincies die niet deelnemen aan deze concessie – zoals Dongen, Asten, Waalre en Loon op Zand – vallen de tarieven voor laden aan openbare palen daarentegen aanzienlijk hoger uit.

Ook in Zuid-Holland is dit patroon zichtbaar. Binnen het concessiegebied SGZH liggen de prijzen doorgaans tussen de 40 en 45 cent per kWh, terwijl niet-deelnemende gemeenten zoals Leiderdorp, Leiden en Oegstgeest tot de duurste gemeenten van Nederland behoren.

Belang uniforme en transparante prijzen
Uit de analyse blijkt dat gemeenten een cruciale regierol hebben in het vormgeven van de lokale laadinfrastructuur. Via concessies en afspraken over laadtarieven bepalen zij in belangrijke mate wat elektrische rijders betalen aan de laadpaal. Door die rol actief op te pakken – bijvoorbeeld door regionale samenwerking en afstemming van beleid – kunnen gemeenten zorgen voor eerlijke, uniforme en transparante laadtarieven. Daarmee voorkomen zij dat inwoners in de ene gemeente fors meer betalen dan hun buren een paar kilometer verderop, en dragen zij mede bij aan een gelijke en toegankelijke transitie naar elektrisch vervoer.

Data-analyse
De analyse is uitgevoerd op basis van zes miljoen laadsessies met de ANWB‑laadpas aan openbare, langzame AC‑laadpalen in 2025. Snellaadstations zijn niet meegenomen. Alle kosten die exploitanten in rekening brengen, inclusief tijdsafhankelijke tarieven, zijn verwerkt in de berekening. Laadpas‑gerelateerde kosten (zoals start‑ of abonnementstarieven) zijn buiten beschouwing gelaten. Gemeenten met minder dan 300 geregistreerde sessies, waaronder Vlieland en Schiermonnikoog, zijn niet meegenomen in de vergelijking.

De eActros 600 is met onder meer een aslastmeetinrichting en 9-tons luchtgeveerde vooras geschikt als LZV-voertuig met een GCW van 50 ton.
Luchtvering van de trekker draagt bij aan comfort, rijeigenschappen en controle over de Mercedes-Benz truck.
De eerste praktijkervaringen laten zien dat ook als LZV een actieradius van meer dan 500 kilometer haalbaar is.
Het besluit om te investeren in volledig elektrisch transport ontstond voor Rijnberg Transport twee jaar geleden. Tijdens een cursus van Zeeland Connect kwam directeur Robert Rijnberg in contact met een transportadviseur van Louwman Trucks, met als doel ervaring en praktische tips op te doen om het bedrijf verder te verduurzamen. Omdat Mercedes-Benz Trucks op dat moment al vergevorderd was met de ontwikkeling van een elektrische trekker, leidde het contact met Louwman uiteindelijk tot de order van een eActros 600. Robert Rijnberg: “Ik ben wel het type met diesel in het bloed, maar kijk natuurlijk ook serieus naar hoe wij als transporteur onze verantwoordelijkheid kunnen nemen. Op uitnodiging van Louwman heb ik de Mercedes-Benz trucks fabriek bezocht en zelf met de eActros gereden. De stilte en vooral de trekkracht hebben indruk op mij gemaakt.” De nieuwe Mercedes-Benz trekker is onlangs in gebruik genomen en wordt ingezet voor volumetransport, voornamelijk op de route tussen Terneuzen en Nijkerk. Dankzij de LZV-goedkeuring mag de eActros 600 als 50-tons trekker rijden op daarvoor aangewezen routes, wat Rijnberg Transport extra efficiëntie oplevert.

LZV verklaring

Voor de inzet als Lange en Zware Vrachtautocombinatie (LZV) moet een trekker aan specifieke eisen voldoen. De standaarduitvoering van de eActros 600 is uitgerust met een 9-tons vooras en daarmee al geschikt voor inzet als 50-tons trekker. Daarnaast beschikt het voertuig over de wettelijk vereiste aslastmeetinrichting, waarmee de aslasten van zowel trekker als oplegger continu worden gemonitord via het display in het dashboard. “Onze chauffeur rijdt volgeladen naar Nijkerk en haalt dan een aantal groupagezendingen in de regio op om vervolgens weer terug te rijden,” legt Rijnberg uit. “De eActros 600 heeft inmiddels bewezen ook als LZV makkelijk een actieradius van 500 kilometer te halen. We gaan het een jaar lang in onze praktijk testen, maar de eerste resultaten zijn veelbelovend.” Hoewel de maximale LZV-lengte van 25,25 meter met de eActros 600 wordt overschreden, is hiervoor een uitzondering toegestaan. Voor combinaties met een goedgekeurde aerodynamische cabine zoals de ProCabin geldt een maximale lengte van 25,75 meter. De aerodynamische ProCabin, met een verlengd front, naadloze carrosserie-opbouw en geoptimaliseerde luchtgeleiding, draagt bij aan een efficiënt energieverbruik en levert tot drie procent besparing op. Voor de veiligheid is de eActros 600 onder meer voorzien van Active Sideguard Assist, dat de volledige lengte van de LZV-combinatie bewaakt.

In controle

Ook voor de chauffeur betekent de eActros 600 een stap vooruit. De vaste chauffeur van Rijnberg Transport reed eerder ook al met LZV’s en is zeer te spreken over zowel het hoge comfortniveau als de krachtige, direct beschikbare trekkracht van de volledig elektrische trekker: “De eActros rijdt bijzonder rustig en comfortabel. Dankzij de luchtvering en het zicht in de nieuwe cabine zit je ontspannen en heb je echt controle over het voertuig.” De eActros 600 is volledig luchtgeveerd, wat in belangrijke mate bijdraagt aan een stabiel en comfortabel rijgedrag, ook bij maximale belading. De truck is daarnaast uitgerust met een compleet veiligheidspakket met onder meer automatische afstandsregeling, Active Sideguard Assist 2, Active Brake Assist 6, Attention Assist en Trailer Stability Assist. Verder beschikt deze eActros 600 over een ruime BigSpace-cabine met luchtgeveerde vooras, Matrix LED-koplampen, een zonneklep met geïntegreerde LED-verlichting en Servotwin-stuurinrichting.

Slim laden

Om de inzet van de eActros 600 optimaal te ondersteunen, heeft Rijnberg Transport de afgelopen maanden geïnvesteerd in eigen laadinfrastructuur op het bedrijfsterrein. De installatie maakt het mogelijk om de volledig elektrische trekker snel en efficiënt op te laden en is bovendien voorbereid op de toekomstige uitbreiding met meerdere elektrische trucks. Voor de chauffeur biedt het systeem extra gebruiksgemak, doordat de eActros 600 tijdens het laden kan preconditioneren. Daarbij worden zowel de cabine als het batterijpakket op de juiste temperatuur gebracht, zodat het voertuig direct optimaal presteert bij vertrek zonder dat dit ten koste gaat van de actieradius. Rijnberg: “We zoeken bewust de grens op om te kijken hoe we het maximale uit deze Mercedes-Benz truck kunnen halen. Ik wil dit jaar minimaal 80.000 kilometer met de eActros kunnen rijden en gezien de eerste ervaringen, moet dat wel lukken. Het is ook leuk om te zien dat collega transportbedrijven interesse hebben in wat we doen. Iedereen wil wel verduurzamen, maar het moet onderaan de streep ook iets opleveren. Dat is de grootste uitdaging en met dit LZV-concept zien wij zeker kansen!”

Rijnberg Transport

January 2026 Case: A System-Wide Stress
Europe entered January 2026 amid one of the most disruptive winter cold waves recorded in over a decade, providing a relevant case study in network-level disruptions. The event impacted air, sea, and road networks simultaneously, affecting operations across multiple countries and exposing structural vulnerabilities in the European logistics system.

An Arctic blast brought widespread snow and ice, with temperatures falling below –30 °C in northern Sweden and Finland and approaching –40 °C in parts of northern Scandinavia. The Baltic region experienced similar conditions; Lithuania recorded extreme cold of –34.3 °C in late January (the lowest record in 30 years). Western and Central Europe faced extensive snow, frost, and hazardous road conditions, with official meteorological warnings issued across countries such as France, Italy, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands.
The operational impact was measurable across all major transport modes.

Air Transport Disruption
Major European airports experienced significant operational constraints. At Amsterdam Schiphol, one of Europe’s primary cargo and passenger hubs, over 2.400 flights were cancelled within a single week, with more than 600 cancellations occurring on a single day. Vienna, Budapest, Prague, and Bratislava also experienced temporary closures or substantial capacity reductions.
The impact on cargo operations was direct: reduced uplift capacity, delays to time-critical shipments, and bottlenecks throughout international supply chains as freight volumes accumulated without adequate transport capacity.
Maritime and Port Operations
Operations at major North Sea ports, including Rotterdam, Hamburg, and Antwerp, experienced measurable slowdowns. Freezing temperatures reduced crane performance, slowed yard equipment, and created hazardous conditions for ground operations, resulting in lower terminal activity.
The effect on inland transport was concrete: increased truck turnaround times, reduced container flow rates, and extended dwell times for both import and export cargo. Containers that typically clear terminals within hours remained in yards for multiple days.
Road Network Impact
Road networks experienced the most extensive disruption. In France, traffic congestion in the Île-de-France region exceeded 1.000 kilometers, prompting authorities to restrict heavy goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes to enable snow-clearing operations. Italy activated national winter emergency protocols on major motorways, implementing controlled entry procedures and lane restrictions.
Drivers across the continent encountered reduced speed limits, increased stopping distances, localized closures, and delays extending from hours to days.

The pattern across inland, sea, and air networks was consistent: when extreme cold and hazardous conditions affect multiple network nodes simultaneously, transport systems experience structural disruption rather than isolated slowdowns.
The Economic Dimension
Extreme weather represents a quantifiable cost driver to European transport systems. The EU-funded EWENT project estimates that extreme weather events result in at least €15 billion in annual transport-system losses across Europe, with road transport identified as particularly vulnerable due to time-related delays, accident impacts, and reduced asset availability.
This aligns with data from the European Environment Agency (EEA). Between 1980 and 2024, weather-related extremes caused an estimated €822 billion in economic losses across the European Union. Notably, over €208 billion, approximately 25% of the total, occurred between 2021 and 2024, indicating a concentration of losses in recent years.
While floods and storms account for the largest proportion of weather-related economic losses, temperature-driven events remain significant. Climatological hazards, including heatwaves, wildfires, droughts, cold spells, and frost, account for approximately 8% of total recorded losses between 1980 and 2024, representing tens of billions of euros in damage to assets, infrastructure, and economic activity across the EU. In 2024 alone, these hazards generated an estimated €5.4 billion in economic losses, confirming that temperature extremes continue to represent a material cost factor for transport operations.

Delay Costs in Context
Although Europe does not offer a unified dataset on cold-related delay hours, the U.S. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provides useful comparative data: adverse weather conditions account for approximately 23% of all roadway delays, equating to over 32 billion lost vehicle-hours annually. Direct costs to the U.S. trucking sector are estimated between $2.2 billion and $3.5 billion per year (approximately €2.0 to €3.2 billion).
Taken together, these figures demonstrate that cold-related disruption is not occasional or incidental. It represents a structural cost factor within freight transportation systems, with measurable implications for cost efficiency, asset utilization, and operational performance.

Understanding Cold-Related Failure Modes
From an operational perspective, extreme cold behaves fundamentally differently from summer heat. Heatwaves tend to degrade performance gradually, allowing time for adaptive measures. Cold, by contrast, introduces threshold effects – specific temperature points at which systems that function normally begin to fail abruptly.
A fleet operating reliably at –5 °C may experience instability at –10 °C, with failure rates increasing sharply as temperatures decline further. According to Girteka maintenance experts servicing hundreds of trucks monthly across its Šiauliai and Poznań transport bases, the recurring technical issues observed during extreme cold are oftentimes concentrated around a limited number of vehicle systems that are particularly sensitive to freezing conditions.
At vehicle level, four areas are most susceptible:
Electrical systems, where battery performance deteriorates rapidly in low temperatures. Reduced battery capacity increases the probability of starting failures, especially after overnight exposure. A battery that performs reliably at 0 °C may deliver only 40–50% of its rated capacity at –20 °C.
Fuel systems, where low temperatures affect diesel flow. As fuel approaches its cold filter plugging point, gelling can occur, restricting flow through filters and lines. In parallel, AdBlue (diesel exhaust fluid) can freeze at low temperatures. This leads to engine power loss, unstable engine operation, or complete failure to start.
Air and braking systems, where moisture present in air reservoirs can freeze. Ice formation affects air flow and brake responsiveness, increasing safety risks precisely when road conditions already demand greater braking precision.
Traction and tire systems, where summer or worn tires lose elasticity and grip in cold weather. Reduced traction can lead to wheel spin, longer stopping distances, or becoming immobilized on icy surfaces, creating delays and safety risks.
Ancillary systems, such as windshield washer fluid, can freeze if not adapted for winter conditions, reducing visibility during snowfall, road spray, or salt accumulation.
These failure modes are rarely isolated. When temperatures drop rapidly, multiple systems can be affected simultaneously, amplifying disruption across entire fleets. Girteka notes that many of these issues are preventable through seasonal preparation carried out in autumn, including replacing washer fluid and coolant with winter-appropriate options, changing oil to ensure proper performance in cold conditions, checking or charging the battery, and verifying overall vehicle readiness before the onset of winter.
In winter operations, reliability is therefore less about responding to breakdowns and more about ensuring that systems do not cross critical failure thresholds once extreme cold sets in. In practice, minimizing these risks requires not only technical adjustments but also consistent planning, clear processes, and coordination across the entire organization.
In practice, minimizing these risks requires more than technical adjustments. It depends on disciplined preparation across the entire organization.
“Extreme winter doesn’t just test our equipment, it tests our systems, discipline, and teamwork. For us, preparation is a season-long process that starts months in advance, covering maintenance, fleet readiness, route planning, and safety training. It’s a shared responsibility across the entire organization, and that’s what keeps freight moving safely and reliably in tough conditions,” notes Andrius Juknevičius, Head of Maintenance at Girteka Transport.

Cargo-Specific Risk Assessment
The operational effects of extreme cold also translate into different risk profiles depending on cargo type. Exposure risk, failure modes, and operational consequences vary based on product characteristics and temperature requirements. Understanding these differences is essential for winter transport planning.

Effective risk management in winter conditions requires real-time visibility (RTV) throughout transit. Temperature monitoring systems enable early detection of system performance before entire loads can be compromised. This becomes particularly critical during extreme cold events, when external temperatures can affect refrigeration unit performance and when traffic delays extend the transit duration.

Food Products

Fresh and frozen food face distinct cold-related risks.
Fresh food is vulnerable to sub-zero exposure. Cellular damage and cold burn occur rapidly, resulting in texture degradation, visual defects, and reduced shelf life. This damage is typically irreversible – product quality cannot be recovered even if temperature conditions stabilize.
Frozen food, while thermally stable at low temperatures, creates operational challenges. Frozen door seals, ice accumulation, and pallets adhering to trailer floors increase unloading times and labor requirements. During peak winter periods, this reduces warehouse throughput when efficiency is most critical.

Beverages and Liquid Products
Beverages are sensitive to freezing due to liquid expansion. Bottles crack, cans rupture, and packaging loses structural integrity. Products that do not show visible damage may experience separation or quality degradation, resulting in customer complaints and returns.
Liquid or semi-liquid products such as detergents and cosmetics face comparable risks, with freezing potentially causing permanent separation or consistency changes.

Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare Items
Pharmaceutical products transported within controlled temperature ranges (typically +2°C to +8°C or +15°C to +25°C) are highly temperature-sensitive.
The primary winter risk is freezing, not heat exposure. Brief temperature excursions below specification can compromise product stability, therapeutic efficacy, and regulatory compliance.

Electronics and High-Value Goods
High-value cargo and electronics face condensation risk from temperature transitions. Rapid movement between cold environments and heated facilities creates conditions for moisture accumulation, which can damage components, compromise packaging, and create corrosion.
Battery-powered devices experience additional challenges, with reduced operational capacity and potential damage at sustained low temperatures.

Across all cargo categories, extreme cold increases freight exposure to risk. The consequences depend on product characteristics, required temperature ranges, and the duration of external stress during transit. Winter performance is therefore determined by how well transportation conditions are anticipated, monitored, and aligned with cargo requirements.

In this context, for cargo shippers, selecting a logistics service provider experienced in operating under extreme winter conditions becomes a defining factor in maintaining consistent performance. Carriers with long-established experience, such as Girteka, are better positioned to anticipate cold-related risks and maintain stable transport conditions that support cargo integrity and operational efficiency in transit.

At the same time, for logistics providers, being chosen as that partner is ultimately a matter of trust. It means moving beyond execution to the commitments behind the scenes and being accountable for cargo safety, timing, and continuity throughout the journey amid seasonal changes.

“Choosing a logistics partner is ultimately about trust. When customers hand over their cargo, they expect certainty. Our role is to take responsibility for that trust, combining industry knowledge, hands-on experience across diverse cargo, and continued investment in people, processes, and systems to ensure goods arrive safely, in full, and on time, regardless of the season or weather conditions,” says Adelė Lasionytė, Head of Business Development at Girteka Logistics.

Fleet Age as a Winter Reliability Advantage

Maintaining performance under extreme winter conditions is rarely the result of a single factor. It reflects the combined effect of preventive maintenance practices, cargo-specific operational knowledge, real-time monitoring capabilities, and the physical resilience of the equipment itself. Among these structural enablers, fleet age plays a particularly important role.
According to ACEA’s 2026 report, there are 6.2 million trucks on EU roads, with Italy, Germany, and Poland accounting for the largest shares. The average age of these trucks is around 14 years, making them significantly older than most other vehicle types and placing them among the oldest fleets in the European transport sector.
This ageing trend reflects a broader challenge: many carriers in Europe operate with older equipment that, while compliant, may be less efficient and less capable in harsh winter conditions. Older vehicles are more likely to experience cold-related mechanical stress, require more frequent maintenance, and face a higher risk of weather-related delays, which are the factors that directly affect cargo security and schedule reliability.
Against this backdrop, working with a carrier that operates a young fleet, such as Girteka, whose trucks average around 2.5 years, becomes a tangible advantage in winter logistics planning. A newer vehicle fleet tends to offer improved mechanical reliability, better integration with modern monitoring and control systems, and higher operational uptime in severe conditions. For shippers, this supports greater confidence that cargo can be transported consistently, even under prolonged winter pressure.
Why Cold-Chain Experience Matters in Winter
Working with an experienced refrigerated transportation provider can help reduce the operational complexity associated with winter logistics. Providers with extensive experience in handling a wide range of temperature-sensitive cargo and accustomed to cold-weather operations, are better equipped to manage seasonal risks through modern equipment, established operating procedures, and systems designed to perform more reliably in low temperatures.
For shippers, this typically results in:
Greater confidence that temperature-sensitive goods remain within specified ranges
Access to monitoring and alert systems that support ongoing visibility
Continuous operational support and proactive issue resolution throughout transit
An effective cold-chain transportation partner functions as an integrated part of the supply chain rather than a transactional vendor. By working with a provider that is experienced in cold-chain and is prepared for winter conditions, businesses can maintain focus on core commercial activities while reducing the operational burden associated with temperature-controlled transport during colder months.

“With the new Marco Polo we’re offering our customers an even more sophisticated home on wheels. A home that effortlessly combines travel and everyday life – while making a stylish statement. In order words: a Mercedes‑Benz through and through.”
Sagree Sardien, Head of Sales & Marketing Mercedes-Benz Vans

“At our Ludwigsfelde plant, with its highly motivated team, the Marco Polo is converted in a dedicated production hall using state-of-the-art manufacturing processes. Consequently, the new Marco Polo embodies the utmost in Mercedes‑Benz precision.”
Roberto Lopez Garcia, Head of Production & Site Mercedes-Benz Ludwigsfelde GmbH

Because details matter: The new Marco Polo is cosier and more comfortable than ever
It’s often the exquisite touches executed with a love of detail that turn a vehicle into a true home on wheels. With that in mind, in the latest edition of its popular Marco Polo Mercedes‑Benz has focused on the evolution of selected features in the living space. Initially the product substance of the Marco Polo will remain unchanged. Still based on the V‑Class, it maintains its market identity as the glamping mobile with the Mercedes‑Benz star, equally suited for travel and everyday life.

The updates include:

Improved living and sleeping concept: The new pop-up roof consists of a robust and light double-skinned aluminium shell. Along with outstanding stability and insulation in almost all weather conditions, it now provides an additional 10 cm in headroom when the expandable rear section is raised to its full height. This significantly enhances the cosiness of the living and sleeping experience.
New lighting concept: The LED ambient lighting in the pop-up roof offers various user-selected lighting scenarios – from cool, energising light to warm and cosy tones – as the travellers desire. In addition, a new sliding roof provides more daylight in the interior and fresh air[1]. At night, it allows an unobstructed view of the starry sky.
New awning concept: The fully redesigned awning now allows full flexibility in assembly and disassembly. This is highly convenient, for example at the carwash. The crank for raising and lowering the awning is cleverly stored in the awning holder to save space.
New darkening system: For restful nights and daytime privacy, new darkening solutions can be magnetically attached in the cockpit in just a few simple steps.
Next-level infotainment: The new Marco Polo also boasts a substantially enhanced acoustic experience. The new sound system, specifically tailored to the Marco Polo, features eight speakers and subwoofer to deliver clear, rich sound – both on the road and at the campsite – because the Bluetooth connectivity allows playback even when the infotainment system is switched off.
Connectivity even more intelligent than before: The Mercedes‑Benz Advanced Control (MBAC) system, which has turned the Marco Polo into a mobile smart home since 2019, has undergone further development and gained new features. For example, the new sliding roof, the ambient LED lighting in the pop-up roof and the updated sound system can now be controlled centrally and intuitively via the head unit display or the MBAC smartphone app.
Further optimisations: Improved folding tables, optimised drawer slides, a redesigned bench seat control panel and a more energy-efficient cooler box offer greater comfort.
The new Marco Polo will be available to order soon – along with the new Marco Polo HORIZON, which will have almost all of the new features. Without a built-in kitchen unit or closet, the Marco Polo HORIZON is a leisure vehicle – suitable for weekend outings and short holidays. It features the new awning concept as well as the magnetic darkening elements for the cockpit, for instance. Exclusively available for the Marco Polo HORIZON: a magnetic darkening solution for the rear. For advanced safety, the new Marco Polo HORIZON has window bags from the A to D pillar as standard. The new vehicles will celebrate their show premiere at the Caravan Salon Düsseldorf from 28 August to 6 September.

Mercedes-Benz through and through: The new Marco Polo from the Mercedes-Benz Vans plant in Ludwigsfelde
The latest edition marks a milestone in the history of the Marco Polo: with the 2026 Marco Polo, Mercedes‑Benz is relying entirely on in-house production of every aspect of the vehicle – from the bodywork to the last furnishing detail: as before, the V-Class base vehicle is built at the Mercedes‑Benz Vans plant in Vitoria, Spain. The vehicle is then converted into the Marco Polo at the Mercedes‑Benz Ludwigsfelde plant, Germany.

By integrating the conversion into its own Mercedes-Benz Vans production network, the company ensures the highest quality standards. The closer intermeshing of processes also creates potential for more flexibility and faster delivery times.

The employees in Ludwigsfelde have received comprehensive training to optimally prepare them for the special requirements and expectations of motorhome buyers. The Marco Polo is converted in a purpose-built production hall using modern methods. For example, the factory, which operates entirely without paper, was digitally designed. In addition, an innovative conveyor technology provides employees with optimal ergonomic support.

The next chapter towards the end of the decade: The new Mercedes-Benz Van Architecture
In the future, all newly developed Mercedes-Benz Vans will be based on the modular and flexible Mercedes‑Benz Van Architecture. Along with the fully electric Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) models, highly advanced internal combustion vans will be rolled out with the second version, the Van Combustion Architecture (VAN.CA). The motorhomes with the star are expected to follow this path by the end of the decade.

Familiebedrijf met regionale kracht

Ittervoort Betoncentrale is een echt familiebedrijf en bestaat inmiddels 31 jaar. Met een wagenpark van veertien vrachtwagens levert het bedrijf beton aan zowel grote aannemers als particuliere opdrachtgevers. Het werkgebied is omvangrijk en strekt zich uit van Eindhoven tot Maastricht en richting Venlo. “Door die afstanden hebben we een robuust en betrouwbaar wagenpark nodig,” vertelt Ewoud Willems, bedrijfsleider bij Ittervoort Betoncentrale. “We rijden relatief ver, dus elke vrachtwagen moet optimaal presteren.”

De drie nieuwe Scania’s zijn door Boogert Service in Nieuwerkerk opgebouwd met betonmixers, een opbouw waarmee Ittervoort Betoncentrale al jaren ervaring heeft.

Af-fabriek Wide Spread Triple

De keuze voor Scania werd mede bepaald door de mogelijkheid om de Wide Spread Triple-asconfiguratie af-fabriek te leveren. “Dat was voor ons doorslaggevend,” aldus Willems. “We willen alles bij één leverancier onderbrengen. We zijn geen voorstander van oplossingen waarbij achteraf nog een extra as wordt geplaatst.”

Dankzij de Wide Spread Triple-configuratie beschikken de vijfassige Scania’s over een GVW van 49 ton, wat perfect aansluit bij het werk van Ittervoort Betoncentrale. Inmiddels rijden er acht vijfassige WST voertuigen in de vloot, waarvan drie van Scania.

Efficiënte aandrijflijn en comfortabel chauffeursconcept

De trucks zijn uitgerust met de Scania Super 13-liter motor met 420 pk, die bekendstaat om zijn gunstige brandstofverbruik en betrouwbaarheid. In combinatie met de robuuste XT-uitvoering zijn de voertuigen geschikt voor zware inzet op en rond bouwplaatsen.

Ook het chauffeurscomfort speelde een belangrijke rol. De ruime en luxe G-cabine biedt veel binnenruimte en overzicht, wat door de chauffeurs zeer wordt gewaardeerd. “Onze chauffeurs zijn vakmensen,” zegt Willems. “Ze moeten niet alleen kunnen rijden, maar ook probleemloos met de mixeropbouw omgaan. De truck en de chauffeur zijn samen ons visitekaartje.”

De eerste ervaringen zijn positief. “De chauffeur die nu op de eerste nieuwe Scania rijdt, is erg enthousiast. De truck ziet er strak uit, rijdt prettig en biedt veel comfort.”

Duurzaamheid en grote projecten

Duurzaamheid speelt een belangrijke rol binnen Ittervoort Betoncentrale. Het bedrijf is CSC Gold-gecertificeerd, een erkenning voor de duurzame en verantwoorde herkomst van beton.

Exceptional interest in the program has seen the previously announced two-car entry increased to three, with the company’s unique ties to the original ‘90s DTM icon evident at every turn.

Each HWA EVO.R will sport an updated homage to a beloved period livery, with heritage sponsors including Kärcher and SONAX already confirmed to return, and the addition of a third entrant creating space for further partners to join one of the sport’s most exciting projects.

The indelible racing heritage evoked by the liveries, sponsors, and HWA EVO.R itself, continues with the Pro/Am driver line-up, which includes Sebastian Asch and Luca Ludwig – sons of legendary 190E Evo II DTM racers Roland Asch and Klaus Ludwig – alongside three-time Nürburgring 24 Hours winner, Markus Winkelhock. The cars will compete under the ‘SP-X’ special vehicle class.

“Having been involved in top level motorsport at the Nürburgring for over 25 years, the circuit is like a second home to us,” said Martin Marx, CEO of HWA. “We are naturally incredibly excited to finally be competing in a car of our own, but to see that excitement matched by so many drivers, fans, customers and sponsors makes it all the more special.”

Full performance and technical information will be announced in due course, with all three cars currently in build. An intensive period of track testing will commence this week, with the first session held at Portimão circuit in Portugal.

About HWA EVO
The HWA EVO combines a successful history with the remarkable present and future of HWA AG. The reinterpretation of the legendary Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evo II is a tribute to this design and performance icon of the early nineties. Based on the Mercedes-Benz W201 series, HWA AG has created a state-of-the-art car that combines the spirit of the past with the technology of today and tomorrow.

“The LBM Rhineland‑Palatinate plans, constructs, and maintains the majority of federal, state, and district roads in Rhineland-Palatinate. When procuring new vehicles for these tasks, we placed particular emphasis on technology, user-friendliness, and durability,” says Mike Fensterseifer, Head of the Road Maintenance and Operations Unit at LBM Rhineland‑Palatinate.

Technical implementation for municipal winter service

Mercedes-Benz Trucks, together with several partners, has developed solutions specifically tailored to the operational requirements of municipal winter service. Paul Commercial Vehicles equips the trucks with various add-ons, attachments, and modifications, including special camera systems and an intuitive electronic control unit for tools and equipment. Bucher Municipal supplies winter service equipment and hydraulic systems, while PALFINGER provides highly efficient loading cranes and robust hook‑lifts, complemented by Meiller two-way and three-way tippers.

Collaborative partnership for optimized operational vehicles

“Mercedes-Benz Own Retail Germany is very proud to have won the LBM Rhineland‑Palatinate tender as the general contractor. With our vehicles, we will help ensure year-round road operations and safety throughout Rhineland-Palatinate,” explains René Rudelt.

System expertise and technology for daily operations

“The new winter service vehicles for LBM Rhineland‑Palatinate impressively demonstrate what becomes possible when technological innovation, deep system expertise, and strong collaboration come together. Our mission is always to rethink technology and deliver specialized vehicles that not only operate reliably in daily use but also create real added value,” adds Bernhard Wasner, Managing Director of Paul Commercial Vehicles GmbH.

About Mercedes-Benz Own Retail Deutschland

Heritage-collectie en Formule 1 grote publiekstrekkers
De heritage-collectie van Joop van der Werff vormde één van de belangrijkste blikvangers. Rond de historische racewagens was het gedurende het weekend druk, waarbij bezoekers uitgebreid stilstonden bij de geschiedenis van de sport.

Ook de aanwezige Formule 1-auto’s trokken veel belangstelling. De wagens werden veel gefotografeerd en zorgden continu voor aanloop. Voor veel bezoekers hoorde het bekijken van deze voertuigen tot de hoogtepunten van hun bezoek.

Volle tribunes tijdens demonstraties
Tijdens de demonstraties was de tribune afgeladen vol. Het geluid van de motoren en de actie op de baan zorgden voor een indrukwekkende sfeer. Het enthousiasme op de tribune onderstreepte de aantrekkingskracht van live autosport binnen het evenement.

Onthullingen en primeurs in de Auto- en Motorsport Hal
In de Auto- en Motorsport Hal stond het brede aanbod aan bijzondere voertuigen centraal, waaronder de RB19, Mercedes XLR en Audi R8 ABT XGT. Daarnaast werden meerdere stockcars onthuld voor het komende raceseizoen. De presentatie van een heritage stockcar, die jarenlang uit beeld was geweest, trok op zaterdag extra aandacht en markeerde een bijzonder moment voor liefhebbers van de sport.

American Lifestyle Hal zorgt voor extra sfeer
De American Lifestyle Hal draaide om Amerikaanse auto’s en motoren. Dansdemonstraties van Let’s Swing, een dj-set van Jacob Bosma en live muziek van Hayfever zorgden voor een aanvullend en sfeervol programmaonderdeel binnen de hal.

Tevreden standhouders en positieve reacties
Standhouders spreken van een goede bezoekersstroom, gerichte gesprekken en nieuwe zakelijke contacten.

“De combinatie van historie, actuele topauto’s en live demonstraties zorgde voor een compleet programma voor een breed publiek,” aldus de organisatie.

Onafhankelijk keurmerk met ruimte voor fabrikant-specifieke expertise
Het LLS-keurmerk van RAI Carrosserie NL vormt al jaren de onafhankelijke basis voor veilige en betrouwbare keuringen binnen de carrosseriebouwsector. In de nieuwe samenwerking blijft deze onafhankelijke basis volledig intact, terwijl VDL aanvullend gebruikmaakt van product-specifieke keurmodules die aansluiten bij eigen innovaties, technologieën en onderhoudsconcepten.

Dit model waarborgt objectiviteit en transparantie door middel van een onafhankelijk keurmerk, zorgt voor gelijke behandeling van fabrikanten binnen één uniforme keurmerkenstructuur en biedt tegelijkertijd ruimte voor technische verdieping en innovatie per merk.

Antwoord op toenemende complexiteit en nieuwe wetgeving
De samenwerking sluit nauw aan bij de recente ontwikkelingen in de Europese wet- en regelgeving. Met ingang van 2027 wordt de huidige Machinerichtlijn vervangen door de Machineverordening. Deze nieuwe verordening stelt strengere eisen aan aantoonbare risicobeheersing, aan traceerbaarheid gedurende de gehele levenscyclus van machines en aan de borging van documentatie, software en elektronische systemen.

Volgens RAI Carrosserie NL vraagt deze ontwikkeling om een keuringsaanpak die verder gaat dan generieke inspecties alleen.

André van Asselt van RAI CarrosserieNL: “De nieuwe Machineverordening vereist aantoonbare en herleidbare veiligheid. Dat kan alleen met een onafhankelijk fundament, gecombineerd met diepgaande productkennis van de fabrikant. Dit hybride model biedt precies die balans.”

Open model voor de hele sector
Hoewel VDL de eerste fabrikant is die deze samenwerking concreet vormgeeft, is het model nadrukkelijk opengesteld voor andere producenten. RAI Carrosserie NL biedt ook andere fabrikanten binnen de sector de mogelijkheid om, onder gelijke voorwaarden, gebruik te maken van het onafhankelijke keurmerk in combinatie met eigen modules.

Hiermee ontstaat één helder keurmerkraamwerk voor de sector, zonder versnippering of merk gebonden keurmerken.

Toekomst­bestendig en schaalbaar
Het digitale keurmerkenplatform van RAI Carrosserie NL maakt het mogelijk om keuringsdata centraal te beheren, audits transparant uit te voeren en informatie gecontroleerd te delen met fabrikanten. Dit ondersteunt zowel dagelijkse praktijk als toekomstige wetgevende eisen.

Met deze samenwerking geven RAI Carrosserie NL en VDL een krachtig signaal af: onafhankelijk waar het moet, merk-specifiek waar het kan. En altijd transparant.

Over ons
Koninklijke RAI Vereniging behartigt de belangen van ruim 700 fabrikanten en importeurs van personen­auto’s en vracht­auto’s, aanhang­wagens en opleggers, carrosserieën en speciale voertuig­en, motorfietsen en scooters, brom- en snorfietsen en fietsen.

Ook de leveranciers van onderdelen en van garage-uitrusting zijn bij RAI Vereniging aangesloten.

RAI Carrosserie NL vertegenwoordigt bedrijven in de carrosseriebouwsector en beheert onafhankelijke keurmerken voor onder meer laadkleppen, autolaadkranen, kiepers en container afzetsystemen. Veiligheid, kwaliteit en transparantie staan daarbij centraal.

Our official 2026 Junior Programme drivers are:

Rashid Al Dhaheri, 17, Emirati
Ethan Jeff-Hall, 17, British
Andy Consani, 16, French
Luna Fluxa, 15, Spanish
Kenzo Craigie, 15, British
James Anagnostiadis, 15, Australian
Many Nuvolini, 12, French
Devin Titz, 11, German
Niccolò Perico, 11, Italian
Gwen Lagrue, Driver Development Advisor, commented: “2026 marks the 10th anniversary of our Junior Programme, a milestone that reflects a decade of identifying, developing and promoting outstanding talent.

“Over the years, the programme has supported and nurtured drivers such as George Russell, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Frederik Vesti and Doriane Pin, guiding them on their path to the highest level of our sport. Our 2026 Formula 1 line-up is entirely composed of drivers who have emerged from our own programme, which is a source of great pride and satisfaction for all of us. It demonstrates the strength of our philosophy and sets a clear example for the next generation within our ranks. I am certain that our young drivers will draw inspiration and motivation from this pathway. Wearing the colours of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team and representing our organisation, and the 2,000 people behind it, across the various junior categories is both a tremendous honour and a significant responsibility.

“For these young drivers, as well as for my team and myself, excellence is the standard. We continuously refine and improve our methods of support and development, always with performance, victories and championships as the ultimate objective. I sincerely hope that 2026 will be marked with success, allowing us to celebrate this 10th anniversary in the best possible way.”

George Russell said: “The team’s Junior Programme has massively helped me throughout my journey both to, and in F1. I genuinely wouldn’t be here today without the support from the very top, from Toto, from Gwen, and from so many people in the team who’ve backed me.

“What’s special about Mercedes is that they fuel your potential. They encourage you to go out there, give everything, and trust that you have what it takes. Being part of the Junior Programme meant so much to me. Wearing the star for the first time was a really special moment, and it’s something you wear with pride.”

Kimi Antonelli added: “Being part of the Junior Programme is an incredible opportunity and it doesn’t come around every day. Be grateful but remember there’s a reason you were chosen. Make the most out of it.

“The Junior Programme gave me huge support on and off the track. I had everything I needed to develop and improve. It’s been an incredible journey and this season’s Juniors will for sure enjoy it as much as I did.”

Bradley Lord, Team Representative, stated: “Our Junior Programme is built around one principle: to support a very select group of drivers who have the talent and character to succeed. Our young driver roster reflects not only exciting ability on track, but also a group whose attitude and ambition match our own.

“Each of these drivers has shown real promise, and we provide the support and the environment for them to continue learning and growing. Our role is to give them the tools, the guidance and the opportunities they need, and then to let their performances speak for themselves. There are no guarantees in this sport in terms of reaching the very top, but we’re excited to see what they’ll achieve in 2026.”

Rashid Al Dhaheri
Emirati driver Rashid joined the Junior Programme in 2025 while competing in Formula Regional. This year started with the Formula Regional Middle East Trophy with R-ace GP, the team who he’ll also be competing with in his main Formula Regional European Championship campaign.

Rashid’s motorsport journey began at the age of three before taking his first steps in karting the following year, at just four years old.

Rashid’s European karting career followed great success, securing notable titles such as 60Mini in the WSK Super Master Series (2019) and WSK Euro Series (2019), as well as OK Junior titles in the WSK Champions Cup and WSK Super Master Series (2021).

Rashid made his single-seater debut in 2023, competing in Italian F4 with Prema Racing. He finished inside the top 10 in the Italian Championship, with several podiums, and secured a podium finish in the prestigious Macau F4 race. In 2024, he continued to deliver strong performances, in both the UAE series and Italian F4 series.

Rashid said: “I’m very proud to be part of the Mercedes-AMG F1 Junior Programme. Being surrounded by such an experienced and successful group has helped me develop massively, both on and off the track. Over the last season we have worked incredibly hard, and it’s great to see that effort translating into strong results. I’m grateful for the guidance and support I receive every day, and I’m excited to keep pushing forward together for the rest of the season.”

Ethan Jeff-Hall
British racer Ethan joined the Junior Programme in 2025. The 17-year-old is continuing his progress in British F4 this year.

Ethan enjoyed a stellar karting career, winning the 2022 Rotax Max European Junior Championship and the British Open ‘O Plate’ Junior Championship. He then became the youngest winner of the Rotax Max Challenge International Trophy in 2023 and won it again the following year. 2024 also marked a milestone moment as Ethan went on to secure the FIA World Karting Championship title in the OK category. Alongside karting, Ethan also moved into car racing and claimed the Ginetta Junior Championship in his rookie season.

In 2025, Ethan stepped up to single-seater competition in the British F4 Championship, where he completed his rookie season by finishing fifth in the Drivers’ Championship, scoring seven podium finishes and 206 points. During the season, he also achieved a podium finish at Silverstone during the British Grand Prix weekend, a landmark moment at the home of UK motorsport.

Ethan said: “It is an absolute honour to continue representing the Mercedes-AMG F1 Junior Programme this year. Being signed with a team of this calibre is a dream come true. I’ve admired Mercedes from a young age, and to now be part of such an iconic organisation means a great deal to me. Mercedes set the benchmark in our sport, and I’m grateful for the trust they have placed in me as we head into the 2026 season together.”

Andy Consani
16-year-old Frenchman Andy joined the Junior Programme in 2025, making his debut in single-seaters by competing in the French F4 Championship. He has begun 2026 by competing in UAE4, scoring three wins and six podiums which made him UAE4 Vice-Champion. He will now race alongside fellow Junior Kenzo Craigie in the Italian F4 and Euro4 championships.

Racing runs in Andy’s blood. His father Robert is a racing driver who’s competed in European and World Rallying and most recently, GT racing. His uncle has also competed in motorsport, and his mother has worked in the industry too.

It’s no surprise that Andy was just four years old when he did his first laps in a go kart. And since starting competitive racing, at the age of nine, he’s impressed with his perseverance, determination and commitment.

Since starting to race on the international scene, he’s achieved top 10 finishes in the 32° Andrea Margutti Trophy (60 Mini), FIA Karting World Championship (OK Junior) and in 2024 was top 20 in the FIA Karting European Championship (OK).

Andy said: “It is an honour to be part of the Mercedes-AMG F1 Junior Programme for this second year. Walking in the footsteps of drivers such as George, Kimi, and Fred is amazing.

“Thanks to the Junior Programme, I have learned and progressed a lot since last year. The whole environment provided to us drivers is goal and human oriented. Everything, whether it is mental and physical preparation or advice on racing, is designed to help us succeed. I feel grateful to be amongst the drivers chosen to be a part of the Junior Programme.”

Luna Fluxá
Luna joined the Junior Programme in 2022, after impressing in her initial seasons racing in karts and showing encouraging signs of a driver on the rise. This year, Luna graduates from karting and will be racing in the F4 Spanish Championship.

She started racing in 2017 and has been travelling around Europe competing in various series since 2019. She stepped up to OK Junior in 2022 and after a good year of development, she remained in the category for 2023 where she made further progress.

In 2024, Luna moved up into the OK Senior category. The highlight of the year was her Champions of the Future Academy Program campaign, where she took numerous victories and podiums to secure the OK Senior title. At the end of the year, she received the Rising Star Award from F1 Academy at the Autosport Awards.

Luna said: “I am very proud to have been part of the Junior Programme for the past four years – it feels like being part of a family. The team supports me in and out of racing and have done so all the way from karting to Formula 4. They have done so much to help me get nearer to my dream of racing in F1 and I am grateful for that continued support. This year I will be racing in Spanish F4 with Campos; I hope to achieve great results and move upwards and onwards!”

Kenzo Craigie
British driver Kenzo joined the Junior Programme in 2023, having ascended to the top ranks of the British karting scene. This year, Kenzo steps up to single-seater and F4, where he will compete in Italian F4 and Euro4 championships.

In 2023 Kenzo competed in the UK and International Rotax and IAME karting categories. The following year was an impressive season for Kenzo. He moved up to OK Junior on the International scene and claimed the big title: the FIA Karting World Championship, along with the 2024 FIA Karting “Action of the Year” for his stunning performance at the PF International circuit. He backed that up with winning the IAME World Final X30 trophy, too, and was P3 overall in the Champions of the Future Euro Series.

He moved up to OK Senior in 2025 and clinched the Champions of the Future Euro Series title with a P2 finish in Sweden in September. His first foray into single-seaters begun at the start of this year with a UAE4 campaign, where he finished P3 overall and was Rookie Champion.

Kenzo said: “My final year in karting was another success, winning the Champions of the Future Championship. I’m excited to step up to F4 in 2026. It’s going to be a big move but I’m ready to learn, develop and keep pushing. Let’s see what we can do.”

James Anagnostiadis
James joined the Junior Programme mid-way through 2024. For 2026, James will keep racing in OK and KZ2 karting.

James began karting at the age of seven and raced throughout his native Australia, winning various events across both state and national level.

During his time in Australia, particular highlights included winning eight state championships in several different classes (such as Cadet and Junior level) between 2018 and 2023.

James won the inaugural Champions of the Future Academy event in 2023 at OK Junior level. After this, him and his family made the move to Europe for the 2024 season where he raced in various international championships with Kart Republic and Argenti Motorsport.

It was a strong season in OK Junior for James where he was Vice-Champion at the FIA Karting World Championships, just behind fellow Junior Driver Kenzo, and also soared to the Champions of the Future Academy Program title in OK Junior.

He moved up to OK Senior and accomplished a great season, finishing Vice European Champion and 4th in the World Championship in Sweden. James was also nominated FIA Rookie of the Year in OK.

James said: “Being part of the Mercedes-AMG F1 Junior Team is a huge honour for me and a big motivation to keep pushing every day. Racing in OK Senior and KZ2 with Kart Republic gives me the perfect environment to develop, learn, and compete at the highest level. I’m proud to represent Mercedes and can’t wait for the year ahead.”

Many Nuvolini
French racer Many Nuvolini joined the Junior Programme in 2025 and will compete in OK Junior this year.

Many began karting at the age of six and has since competed in numerous national and international championships. He has achieved several notable results, including podium finishes in the WSK series and the Italian Karting Championship.

In 2025, Many became Vice-Champion of the Champions of the Future series in the OK-N Junior Category.

Many said: “I am very happy to be part of the Mercedes family and to be part of the Mercedes-AMG F1 Team Junior Programme. I will always give my best to live up to what the team expects of me and how I want to represent myself. I am proud and motivated for the year ahead and to continue to chase my dreams!”

Devin Titz
German driver Devin Titz is one of the newest additions to the Junior Programme and will be competing in Mini karting.

Born in 2014, Devin is a promising young talent in European karting. He began racing at just four years old, quickly making a name for himself with great skill and determination.

After becoming Rok Mini Rookie Champion, ADAC Kart Bundesendlauf winner, and vice-champion in the North German Kart Cup in 2022, Devin finished fourth overall in the 2024 German Kart Championship, securing multiple podiums.

In 2025, Devin raced with CRG Holland and claimed the DMKM Mini Championship and secured pole at the WSK Final Cup in Franciacorta.

Devin said: “It is truly a dream come true to represent the Mercedes-AMG F1 Junior Programme as a German driver. Mercedes stands for excellence and success, and I’m incredibly proud to be part of this team. I would like to thank Motorsport Team Germany for nominating me for the joint talent promotion project with Mercedes.”

Niccolò Perico
Born in 2014 in Alzano Lombardo, Italy, Niccolò is a rising star in the European karting scene and is this year joining our Junior Programme, competing in OK NG.

In 2023, Niccolo won the prestigious 51st Trofeo delle Industrie (MiniU10) held at Lonato. A year later, he was crowned Italian ACI Karting Champion in Mini U10 alongside wins at the Trofeo Margutti and Trofeo Industrie.

In 2025, Niccolo followed these successes by competing in the WSK Super Master Series Mini Gr.3 Final at Lonato and stepped up to Mini Gr.3 with Team Driver Racing Kart, winning the ROK Cup Superfinal.