ZENFreight Launches First Electric HGV Deployment

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In a landmark development for sustainable logistics, the ZENFreight consortium has proudly announced the deployment of its first electric Heavy Goods Vehicle (eHGV), marking a significant milestone under the UK Government’s Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) Programme. This initiative is set to reshape the landscape of freight transport in the UK, paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.

The journey commenced with DFDS, a leading logistics company, introducing its first of eight Volvo FM Electric eHGVs into active service from its Sandhills Business Park depot located in Liverpool. This development is not solely about the vehicle; it coincides with the commissioning of a high-capacity electric charging site, which is crucial for the operational efficiency of electric freight transport.

The eHGV will operate on a dedicated closed-loop route linking the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) fulfilment centre in Merseyside with the bustling Liverpool Port. This strategic route has been selected to maximise the efficiency of electric transport, showcasing the practicality of eHGVs in real-world applications.

At the Sandhills Business Park facility, a state-of-the-art installation features four charging bays, each capable of delivering an impressive 360kWh. This charging capability allows the Volvo eHGV to fully recharge in just two hours, enabling it to complete three to four delivery cycles daily on a single charge. This level of efficiency is vital for businesses looking to integrate electric vehicles into their operations.

The site was developed in partnership with Independent Connection Provider (ICP) Envevo and represents the first live infrastructure installation under the ZENFreight programme. DFDS aims to scale its low-emission transport offerings in response to growing customer demand, and this deployment serves as a pivotal proof point for the ZENFreight initiative.

The ZENFreight consortium is spearheaded by fleet optimisation experts Dynamon and includes a diverse range of operators such as DFDS, John G Russell (Transport), Maritime Transport, and Gregory Distribution. Notably, it also encompasses leading truck manufacturers like Volvo, DAF, Scania, and Daimler, alongside academic partner Imperial College London. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of cross-sector partnerships in driving innovation and sustainability in logistics.

Angus Webb, Founder and CEO of Dynamon, expressed his enthusiasm about the deployment, stating, “This deployment is a crucial early step in showing that electric freight is not just viable; it’s happening now. Our goal is to build a nationwide data-driven model for eHGV deployment and charging infrastructure. DFDS’ Sandhills site is the first of many.”

Allan Bell, Vice President of Logistics UK & Ireland at DFDS, echoed this sentiment, stating, “At DFDS, we’re committed to leading the transition to low-emission road transport. We’re proud to be deploying electric trucks in the UK, with our first vehicle through ZENFreight now operating on behalf of a key partner.” He further noted that the closed circuit route is ideally suited for electric vehicles, marking a significant step in their decarbonisation journey. Future additions to the fleet will focus on collaboration with customers in sectors such as Food, FMCG, and Automotive.

Bell also highlighted that the on-site charging infrastructure is becoming increasingly robust to support the growth of their electric fleet. However, he emphasised that to enable broader adoption across supply chains and facilitate longer-distance operations, ongoing investment and collaboration across sectors are essential.

Keir Mather MP, Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation, commented on the significance of this initiative, saying, “We’re backing the lorries that keep Britain moving to make the switch to electric, and it’s great to see ZENFreight roll out its first electric trucks supported by our funding. Our £200 million investment will deliver hundreds of zero-emission lorries and new charging infrastructure, helping to secure highly paid, quality jobs across the UK and driving economic growth as part of our Plan for Change.”

Victoria Saunders, Innovation Lead at Innovate UK, hailed the deployment of DFDS’s first electric HGV and charging site as a major milestone, not just for the ZENFreight project, but for the UK’s transition to net zero freight. “It’s proof that with the right partnerships, innovation, and ambition, zero-emission road freight is becoming a reality,” she remarked. Innovate UK is proud to support this programme as part of ZEHID, ensuring that the UK leads the way in delivering cleaner, smarter logistics.

The implications of this initiative extend far beyond the logistics sector. As the UK strives to meet its net zero targets, the successful integration of electric vehicles into freight transport is essential. The transition to electric freight not only reduces carbon emissions but also fosters economic growth by creating jobs in emerging green sectors.

Moreover, the ZENFreight project serves as a critical model for the future of logistics, demonstrating that with the right infrastructure and collaboration, the dream of zero-emission road freight can become a reality. As other logistics companies observe the success of DFDS and the ZENFreight consortium, there is potential for a domino effect throughout the industry, encouraging further investment in electric vehicle technology and infrastructure.

In conclusion, the deployment of the first electric HGV by ZENFreight is a monumental step in the journey towards sustainable freight transport in the UK. It illustrates the power of collaboration across sectors and highlights the urgent need for continued investment in infrastructure. As we move forward, it is crucial for all stakeholders to embrace innovation and work together towards a greener future. The success of this initiative will not only benefit the environment but will also pave the way for a thriving green economy, ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of the transition to net zero.

As the ZENFreight consortium continues its mission, we at Net Zero News will keep you informed about the latest developments and milestones in this exciting journey towards sustainable logistics. Together, let us champion the cause of net zero and support initiatives that promise a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.