Electric Heavy Goods Vehicles (eHGVs) are increasing on our roads today, driven chiefly by the UK’s climate targets. The current deadline for reducing emissions means new diesel HGVs are to be phased out by 2040 and replaced by electric HGVs.
Key Dates
Rigid / Articulated HGVs up to 2040 = Sales Banned from 2035
Heavier Articulated HGVs = Sales Banned from 2040
What is an eHGV?
An electric HGV (heavy goods vehicle) is a large freight truck powered by electricity from rechargeable batteries. EHGVs produce zero exhaust emissions, making them a key element in reducing our carbon footprint. They offer other benefits as well, including low noise levels and high fuel efficiency.
Vital EV are the UK’s leading DC charging specialist, providing turnkey support for eHGV charging infrastructure. We partner with experienced Independent Connection providers (ICPs) to provide full grid connection and high voltage installation support, streamlining eHGV deployments and reducing project timescales.
Zero Emission Deadline for HGVs
The Road to Zero Strategy, first launched in 2018, is the UK government’s long-term plan to reduce emissions from road transport and accelerate the shift to cleaner vehicles. Road transport accounts for a large proportion of global carbon emissions – around a staggering 75%! Within this figure, heavy goods vehicles contribute approximately 16-17%, although in terms of vehicle miles, they make up only 5%. The disproportionate HGV emissions are due to the large mileage and heavy loads of HGVs.
In the UK, the government aims to ban the sale of HGVs weighing under 26 tonnes by 2035, with all new heavy-duty trucks being zero emission by 2040.
Electric HGV Charging Superhubs
In line with zero-emission targets, a new national network of motorway service charging stations for electric heavy goods vehicles is under construction. The first 15 ‘superhubs’ are expected to be operational by the end of 2027, providing nationwide access to reliable truck stop charging points. The plans will empower fleet companies and offer the much-needed catalyst for eHGV investment.
If the half a million diesel HGVs on UK roads switched to electric, the potential saving in emissions would be the same as powering two million homes for a year.
Range and Payload – Can Electric HGVs Compete with Diesel?
One of the challenges for the heavy goods logistics industry is the limited freight charging facilities. This, coupled with differences in range and payload versus traditional diesel trucks, is making the road to full eHGV electrification a difficult one.
Electric Heavy Goods Vehicles offer lower running costs but currently have a reduced range and payload compared to diesel HGVs due to the weight of the batteries. While a diesel truck can travel 1,000 – 1,200 km on a full tank, eHGVs typically have a range of about 300 – 500 km. The size of the batteries is also problematic, as they reduce the amount of space available for cargo.
Despite the challenges, electric HGVs can compete with diesel trucks on certain journeys and are expected to become even more competitive as technology continues to advance. In fact, some studies show that eHGVs are already cheaper on lifetime costs; although they cost more initially, they save money over time through low running costs.
Short/Medium Haul
EHGVs outperform diesel in city deliveries, supermarket freight and regional freight because they can access clean air zones, they have lower operating costs, and they run with less noise, benefitting urban night-time deliveries.
Long Haul
Diesel currently outperforms electric HGVs because of their limited range and an underdeveloped EV charging infrastructure.
Technological Advancements
A commitment to boosting eHGV charging infrastructure and technological advancements in batteries is having a significant influence on payload and range. Electric HGVs are becoming more competitive for long-haul journeys. As megawatt charging and next-gen batteries evolve, eHGVs will continue to close the gap with their diesel counterparts.
Electric HGVs are fast becoming a realistic solution for freight and logistics. While challenges remain around range, payload, and infrastructure, investing in electric HGVs will future-proof your business in a logistics climate that is changing rapidly. Contact Vital EV to explore our advanced eHGV charging solutions. Whether you’re looking for a single EV Charger or a comprehensive EV charging station, our solutions can be scaled to suit your needs.
Anna Eyre
Digital Marketing Lead
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