DP World has deployed two fully electric heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) from its Swindon base as part of a wider project aimed at exploring the real-world viability of battery electric trucks across logistics operations in the UK.
The company has joined the Joint Operators Logistics Trial (JOLT), which brings together 14 fleets, three OEMs (Volvo, Scania, and DAF), and two universities (University of Cambridge (Engineering) and Heriot-Watt University (Logistics)), as well as other specialists including software manufacturers, network charging operators and electric fleet service providers.
Each participant in the JOLT trial will test the supplied trucks and chargers for three months assessing a variety of logistics operations, journey types and load profiles.
Extensive data will be collected to evaluate the operational performance of battery electric HGVs, charging infrastructure requirements, battery degradation and range limitations, business case viability for SMEs and large fleets and future fleet modeling and transition strategies.
Nicholas Mazzei, vice president, sustainability Europe, at DP World, explained, “We are committed to leading the transition to a sustainable logistics sector. Our participation in JOLT is another step toward building the cleanest, most sustainable fleet across the supply chain.
“These electric trucks are not only zero emission at the tailpipe but also offer a quieter, more comfortable experience for drivers. While charging infrastructure remains a challenge, we expect rapid progress in the next two years, and we believe the future of road freight will be electric.
“Trials like JOLT are critical to understanding how fleets can transition to electric alternatives. DP World is determined to lead the way in sustainable logistics and intends to be the leading operator of EV HGV in Europe,” he added.
DP World currently operates 215 HGVs in the UK. If the trial is successful, the company plans to place an order for 45 EV HGVs this year to be used in automotive logistics operations. Looking ahead, DP World proposes to transition 70% of its 802-strong European fleet to EVs by 2030.
DP World will also be testing Mercedes-Benz hydrogen fuel cell trucks powered by liquid hydrogen in Germersheim, Germany, as another alternative in its commitment to decarbonizing freight transportation in the UK and Europe.