MP gets behind wheel of new DAF LF Electric at Leyland Trucks

Leyland Trucks’ new DAF LF Electric truck was given the seal of approval from DfT minister Trudy Harrison (pictured right) this week.

The company, which has been selected to support the DfT’s efforts to increase the use of battery-electric vehicles in commercial transport fleets across the UK, gave Harrison the opportunity to test drive its new 19-tonne DAF LF Electric distribution truck during her tour of the production facility.

The MP also met with staff, including apprentices and technicians who are being trained to maintain electric vehicles learnt about the company’s ambitions to ramp up its supply electric trucks to help cut road freight emissions.

Brennan Gourdie, MD at Leyland Trucks, said: “It’s been a very busy few months since we launched production of our LF Electric as we’re determined to lead the charge when it comes to the rollout of battery-electric vehicles in the commercial sector.

“We were very pleased to welcome Mrs Harrison to site, to demonstrate the ways we are preparing for a future of electric, and how we as a supplier to our clients help them meet their own green agendas, too.

“Mrs Harrison knew her truck history, was keen to learn about our manufacturing processes, and shared our excitement about upskilling young engineers who’ll be able to learn brand new skills to help achieve zero net carbon targets.”

Carl Hergart, Leyland Trucks’ chief engineer, added: “Applying a one-size-fits-all solution will be detrimental; each commercial organisation looking to introduce electric vehicles to its fleet must assess its individual needs and work with suppliers that can adapt around them.

“What’s key to us now is ensuring we partner with government and other third-party organisations to ensure the rollout of battery-powered vehicles is efficient, using the learnings from the production of our own electric vehicles here on site to inform other business’ specific strategies.”

Transport minister, Trudy Harrison, said: “Following the recent COP26 summit, I was pleased to visit Leyland Trucks to discuss how government and UK industry can work together to decarbonise the road freight sector.

“I had the pleasure of test driving their impressive new LF electric truck and seeing first hand this forward thinking business lead the way as we commit to making all new HGVs zero emission by 2040.”