![Mercedes-Benz_eActros_600_(1)[1]](https://d2cohhpa0jt4tw.cloudfront.net/Pictures/274x183/8/1/8/17818_mercedesbenz_eactros_600_11_556244.jpg)
DP World helped two container truck operators trial electric lorries as part of a pilot programme developed in collaboration with the research team behind Project JOLT.
SJG Haulage and Port Express put a Volvo FH42TE and a Mercedes e-Actros 600 through their paces, with ATL Haulage Contractors and Williams Shipping testing two more trucks between now and June.
The eHGVs were placed with the two nominated fleet operators and in return they charged their trucks at DP World’s driver welfare facility at Southampton, home to two twin EV charging points.
As part of the programme, DP World provided the electricity at cost parity to diesel.
The port operator’s Electric Vehicle Transition & Introduction Accelerator (EVITA) trial was launched as an expansion of the Low Carbon Truck Programme (LCTP) and targets SMEs that find the high initial costs of electric heavy goods vehicles prohibitive.
SJG ran a shuttle exercise of around 30 miles from Southampton Docks to Fawley using the Volvo and Port Express explored range constraints with multiple return trips to Milton Keynes and to the West Country.
James Watts, MD of Port Express said: “We welcomed the opportunity to roll up our sleeves and experience running an electric truck. We have learnt a lot about loadings, ranges and charging. Although there are restrictions created by the lack of infrastructure, we can see the potential moving forward.”
Natalie Noke, SJG Haulage director said: “This has been a beneficial exercise for our SME business. It has improved our understanding of electric trucks and what they are capable of. Their limited range and the availability of charge points mean that they are not an option today for tramping, but we can now see tomorrow’s potential.”
Project JOLT is a joint venture between academia and industry with an aim to investigate the economic viability of electric HGVs.
It comprises two universities, 15 fleet operators, five truck manufacturers and three “enablers” who are responsible for project management and software support. The consortium is led by Professor David Cebon, head of the Centre for Sustainable Road Freight.
