- GRIDSERVE, with Hitachi ZeroCarbon, pioneers a zero-emission future in UK logistics.
- Aims: extensive eHGV charging network, supporting up to 140 vehicles with 33 partners.
- Milestones: deploying first eHGVs, creating charging depots, aligning with UK Government’s HGV phase-out by 2035.
Transforming UK logistics: The GRIDSERVE Electric Freightway gets underway as first report is released with Hitachi ZeroCarbon
GRIDSERVE’s Electric Freightway Programme, in collaboration with principal partner Hitachi ZeroCarbon, unveiled its First Report on 4th March 2024. This forms a crucial part of the ambitious Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator programme.
The project is led by GRIDSERVE and supported by funding from the Department for Transport in conjunction with Innovate UK. Electric Freightway aims to establish the world’s most extensive and advanced electric Heavy Goods Vehicle (eHGV) charging network. The First Report outlines a detailed roadmap, refining objectives initially outlined in October 2023.
James Comer, Programme Director, Hitachi ZeroCarbon, commented:
“With the UK Government’s ambitious targets of ending combustion-powered heavy goods vehicles by 2035, and 2040 for heavier vehicles, now is the time to enact meaningful change and deploy the insights that data can provide. This project is the pioneer demonstration for the decarbonisation of the UK’s logistics industry and will tangibly test what a zero carbon future could look like. We’re proud to provide the unique insight that will stimulate the market to make the move to battery electric trucks and a net zero society.”
The program, boasting the involvement of 33 consortium partners and members, aims to support and monitor up to 140 eHGVs. Simultaneously, it intends to install 200 eHGV chargers across motorway service areas, truck stops, and commercial depots. It collaborates closely with stakeholders along the value chain. So, it stands as a pivotal step in advancing the decarbonisation of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs).
Anticipated milestones for the upcoming spring include the delivery and deployment of the first electric Heavy Goods Vehicles. GRIDSERVE simultaneously aims to finalise its inaugural eHGV charging depot. This depends on approval from landowners, business owners, local government, and Distribution Network Operators.
Sam Clarke, Chief Vehicle Officer, GRIDSERVE states:
“The decarbonisation of the UK truck fleet is one of the greatest disruptors haulage and logistics have ever seen and we are now well underway through this project to catalyse material change. In Electric Freightway, we’ll push electric HGVs to their limits to establish just what is possible, while highlighting where there is the need for process, technological or policy innovation to enable the transition to electric. This first report enables us to set out all our ambitions, achievements and challenges to date and set the standard for all to follow.”
Looking ahead, the program commits to keeping the haulage industry informed of key insights. Some consortium members will receive initial eHGV orders for immediate deployment. Hitachi ZeroCarbon plans to conduct surveys, gathering valuable data on the evolving perceptions and experiences of drivers and fleet managers.
As the project gains momentum, a second report is scheduled for publication in the summer. Hitachi ZeroCarbon will share insights into the driving cycle efficiency of eHGVs. They will build on lessons from the first eHGV infrastructure installation. The report will also illuminate challenges faced by organisations venturing into eHGV infrastructure implementation.
If you work in the logistics industry and would like to contribute towards this momentous project, share your thoughts with the team here – feedback@gridserve.com
