TATRA TRUCKS a.s.: Efficient lighting upgrade

3,000

LED L

83 %

ENERGY SAVINGS

4 YEARS

INVESTMENT PAYBACK

3.9 GWh → 0.6 GWh

CONSUMPTION


TATRA TRUCKS a.s. – A traditional innovator in heavy-duty trucks

When one of the world’s most iconic truck manufacturers decided to modernise its production halls, improving energy efficiency and performance was important. By replacing outdated lighting with state-of-the-art doublepower!! SKY and DAY LED luminaires, TATRA TRUCKS achieved nearly 83% energy savings and a full return on investment in just 4 years.

Case study

About the Company

Based in Kopřivnice, Czech Republic, TATRA TRUCKS a.s. is among the world’s oldest vehicle manufacturers, with roots dating back to 1850. Today, as part of the Czechoslovak Group (65%) and PROMET GROUP (35%), the company specialises in heavy-duty off-road vehicles and trucks for combined on/off-road applications.

Tatra’s unique design concept delivers outstanding off-road performance and durability, proven by multiple victories in the legendary Dakar Rally. Its portfolio includes the TATRA PHOENIX, TATRA FORCE, TATRA TACTIC, and TATRA TERRA model series, serving both civilian and specialised markets worldwide.

Project Background

The production halls, covering approximately 80,000 m², were illuminated by 3,500 discharge lamps. In addition to high energy consumption, the ageing lighting infrastructure required frequent maintenance and lacked the control features of modern systems. Improving operational efficiency, reducing energy use, and enhancing working conditions were key goals for the project.

Implementation

The modernisation was carried out between March and June 2020. The old lighting system was replaced with 3,000 LED luminaires of the SKY and DAY series. These were installed at heights ranging from 8 to 12 metres and integrated with a smart control system enabling:

  • Daylight regulation to automatically adjust brightness
  • Time scheduling for targeted operation hours
  • Optimised distribution of light across the workspaces

The project also included the installation of new cabling and distribution boards, ensuring the reliability and safety of the updated system.

Results

  • Annual energy consumption reduced from 3.9 GWh to 0.6 GWh
  • Energy savings: ~3.2 GWh/year (~83%)
  • Return on investment: 4 years
  • Additional benefits: Reduced maintenance, improved lighting quality, and enhanced workplace safety

Key Takeaway

This project demonstrates how strategic lighting modernisation can deliver significant operational benefits. For TATRA TRUCKS, the solution has provided substantial energy savings, lower operating costs, and a modern working environment that supports both productivity and employee well-being.

Interesting Fact: Some of the old wiring and distribution boards were around half a century old. The project therefore included complete cabling replacement and modern electrical distribution, ensuring the new system’s long-term reliability.