Liam Ely, a driver for Welch’s Transport, operates one of the UK’s first electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs), a Renault e-Tech T. His firm, based in Duxford, Cambridgeshire, has incorporated three electric trucks into a larger fleet of 70 diesel vehicles, focusing on regional operations within 160 kilometers from their depot due to the electric trucks’ range limitations. While the electric vehicles provide significant benefits like reduced fuel costs within their operational radius, the maximum range of 200 miles (320 km) on a single charge is substantially lower than that of diesel trucks, which can travel up to 1,500 miles.
Ely noted advantages such as instant torque and smooth power transition while driving the eHGV. However, he highlighted operational challenges posed by the limited range, requiring meticulous route planning. The environmental benefits of using electric vehicles, particularly their zero tailpipe emissions, appeal to some operators and their clients, like the British Antarctic Survey, which aims for net-zero emissions by 2040.
Despite the growing interest, there are obstacles facing eHGVs, primarily the scarcity and cost of public charging infrastructure. Currently, two operational charging facilities exist for eHGVs in the UK, while demand exceeds supply across Europe. Welch’s Transport pays 17 pence per kilowatt hour (kWh) for charging at their base, contrasting sharply with the 79 pence per kWh from public stations. This price discrepancy, along with infrastructure limitations, complicates the transition to electric vehicles for long-haul operators.
As all new heavy goods vehicles in the UK and EU must be electric by 2040, industry leaders call for collaborative efforts to enhance charging accessibility and develop sustainable operational frameworks. The UK government is investing in grants to improve depot charging and support the acquisition of eHGVs, recognizing the urgent need to upgrade electricity grid capacity to accommodate the anticipated demand.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4g6wnzqgn2o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss