The DfT has allocated £2.2m funding to a project developing ultra high-speed and movable charging technology for commercial vehicles under its £20m Low Emission Freight and Logistics Trial.
Tech firm Zapinamo is working with the University of Warwick’s research department WMG to deliver rapid charging capability that can meet the demands of electric CVs with long and demanding duty cycles.
Zapinamo said the technology represents a "step change" in how commercial vehicles are charged.
The technology uses on/off grid and renewable sources for electric vehicle charging and is capable of delivering more than 400kW to charge a vehicle in minutes.
The freight and delivery trials will be carried out by Zapinamo and WMG, supported by vehicle manufacturer Iveco and London-based organic food grocer Farmdrop.
A raid charging facility will be installed for Farmdrop’s fleet of 20 zero-emission electric vans based at the operator’s Bermondsey, south London depot.
Tim Martin, Zapinamo CEO said the project represented a “significant step” towards air quality improvement.
“Our technology is a global first and it is fantastic to be trialling it in London with our partners,” he added.
Phil Eaves, Farmdrop director of supply chain, added: “As part of our mission to fix the food chain, Farmdrop are committed to the use of electric vehicles for customer deliveries.
“We're proud to have zero tailpipe emissions and customers love our 100% electric delivery fleet. As the ethical grocer we look forward to embracing the use of new technology through this trial,” he added.
