But the Government has still not set out a detailed plan to enable the transition to zero-emission trucks.
Battery electric trucks could start delivering more of the UK’s goods much earlier than previously thought, according to new research published today. The study, commissioned from industry experts Element Energy by Transport & Environment UK, shows that battery electric trucks can already start to replace diesel trucks for most uses in the next few years.
Government’s 2035 and 2040 phase-out dates for sales of diesel HGVs can be achieved ahead of time. But the Government has still not set out a detailed plan to enable the transition to zero-emission trucks. To speed up the switch and reduce truck CO2 emissions and toxic air pollution, they recommend:
Introducing interim ZEV mandates;
Supporting UK supply chain development for battery electric trucks;
Providing more effective vehicle acquisition incentives;
Supporting the roll-out of private charging infrastructure for depot-based fleets;
Lowering the early-years risks to public truck charging infrastructure providers through zero/low interest loans;
Supporting public charging at major warehouses and logistics hubs;
Considering changes to vehicle weight and length limits to support electric trucks;
Reviewing where appropriate driver hours regulations and rest stops.
The recommendations have been endorsed by the UK Platform for Battery Electric Trucking, an advisory group of stakeholders which includes experts from: UPS, John Lewis Partnership, Centre for Sustainable Road Freight, GRIDSERVE, Zemo Partnership, and Element Energy.
Richard Hebditch said: “Our research shows that the UK’s phase-out dates for diesel trucks are very achievable, but the government has yet to set out a plan to make it happen. Key to this is early support for those making the switch to battery electric trucks. This will cost money in the short-term and the Treasury needs to get behind this to help unlock the benefits for the UK economy in the long-run.”
Source transportenviroment.org
