Funding Secured for eFREIGHT Autonomous Project

Hello, Champions of Net Zero!

In an exciting development for the future of freight transport in the UK, eFREIGHT Autonomous has successfully secured funding from the UK Government through the CAM Pathfinder Feasibility Studies (FS) Competition, an initiative delivered by Innovate UK and Zenzic. This funding marks a significant step forward in exploring the potential of autonomous heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in transforming the landscape of logistics and supply chain management.

eFREIGHT Autonomous is part of a consortium comprised of leading experts in commercial vehicles and automotive technology, and it stands out as one of the 14 projects selected through this highly competitive initiative. The focus of eFREIGHT Autonomous is to investigate the role that autonomous HGVs can play within fleet operations across the UK. This exploration is crucial as it aligns with the broader goals of enhancing efficiency while also reducing emissions in the transport sector.

The aim of this feasibility study is multi-faceted. By evaluating the existing technology and understanding the trajectory of future advancements, the project intends to identify potential use cases for autonomous vehicles in freight transport. Moreover, it will assess the commercial viability of these technologies and examine the necessary infrastructure and legislative frameworks required to facilitate the deployment of autonomous trucking in the UK.

At the helm of this ambitious project is the Voltempo Group, an innovative EV charging firm and developer of megawatt charging solutions. The consortium also includes Berkeley Coachworks, renowned for their design of the lightweight Berkeley Bulldog e-trailer, as well as Connected Places Catapult, a data and research partner dedicated to advancing mobility solutions.

As the project progresses, eFREIGHT Autonomous plans to generate comprehensive reports and briefing documents aimed at both government and industry stakeholders. These documents will outline a detailed roadmap for the integration of autonomous heavy road freight vehicles, pinpointing opportunities, assessing risks, and estimating costs and timelines for the rollout of autonomous vehicles within the freight sector.

In tandem with the feasibility study, Berkeley Coachworks is looking to develop its own line of autonomous HGVs. Following the publication of the study’s findings, eFREIGHT Autonomous aims to explore the possibility of conducting real-world trials with these vehicles, with an ambitious goal of having operational autonomous HGVs by the end of 2027. The feasibility study is set to commence in the summer of 2025, with results anticipated to be available by early 2027.

Guiding the consortium is Sir Vince Cable, the former Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, who notably approved the UK’s first tests of driverless technology back in 2014. Sir Vince expressed his enthusiasm regarding the project, stating, “We are delighted to have been selected to take part in the CAM Pathfinder feasibility study to research, evaluate and help shape the future of UK freight transport from the perspective of fleet operators. Autonomous technology offers a chance to unlock innovation across transport, strengthen the UK supply chain, and rethink logistics that are cleaner, greener, and better for local communities and businesses.”

Echoing these sentiments, Michael Boxwell, CEO of Voltempo, highlighted the importance of this initiative. He noted, “Autonomous vehicles are already in everyday use in parts of China and the US, and trials here in the UK, such as self-driving shuttles in Birmingham and autonomous buses in Scotland, are paving the way for wider adoption by 2027 with the full implementation of the Automated Vehicles Act. For freight operators working on tight margins, this is a chance to understand this transformational technology, help shape its future rollout, and explore the real cost-saving opportunities it can deliver for the UK supply chain through improved efficiencies.”

Mark Cracknell, Programme Director at Zenzic, also weighed in on the significance of the eFREIGHT Autonomous project. He stated, “The deployment of Connected and Automated Mobility solutions holds incredible promise – enhancing accessibility, reducing emissions, and fostering a transport network that is both reliable and inclusive. The eFREIGHT Autonomous project will serve as a pivotal example in showcasing those benefits. We are looking forward to working with the project consortia as they further develop their business case, demonstrate the commercial readiness of the service, and provide vital insight into the opportunities presented by the deployment of CAM solutions in regions throughout the UK.”

This initiative is a clear indication that the UK is committed to leading the charge in the realm of autonomous transport, particularly in the freight sector. With the potential to revolutionise logistics and significantly reduce emissions, the eFREIGHT Autonomous project could serve as a cornerstone in the transition towards a more sustainable and efficient transport system. As we advance towards a future where autonomous vehicles become a common sight on our roads, the implications for the environment, economy, and society at large are profound. The collaboration between government, industry leaders, and technology innovators underscores the importance of a united approach to tackling the challenges of modern transport.

As we keep a close watch on the developments from the eFREIGHT Autonomous project, we invite you, our community of Champions of Net Zero, to engage with this unfolding story. The journey towards a sustainable transport future is one that requires collective action and innovative thinking, and we will be here to keep you informed every step of the way.

Together, let’s champion the cause of net zero and pave the way for a cleaner, greener future!