Is the Shortage of Charging Stations Holding Back Electric Trucks?

Electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs) represent a transformative shift in the logistics and transport sectors, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional diesel lorries. However, their adoption is hindered by challenges such as limited range, high initial costs, and inadequate charging infrastructure. This article explores the current state of eHGVs in the UK, their operational benefits, and the hurdles that need to be overcome to achieve widespread use.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• eHGVs can travel up to 200 miles on a single charge, significantly less than diesel lorries.
• High initial costs and limited charging infrastructure hinder eHGV adoption.
• Renewable energy sources accounted for over 50% of the UK's electricity generation in 2022.
• Collaboration between the government and the logistics sector is crucial for a sustainable transition.
• Charging costs for eHGVs vary significantly between depot and public charging facilities.

The Rise of Electric Heavy Goods Vehicles

Electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs) are gaining traction as the UK and the world aim to reduce carbon emissions. Welch's Transport, based in Duxford, Cambridgeshire, is among the pioneering firms incorporating eHGVs into their fleet. With three electric lorries complementing a larger fleet of diesel-powered vehicles, Welch's is strategically positioned to navigate the transition towards sustainable transport. Liam Ely, a driver with four years of experience at Welch's, appreciates the "instant torque" and smooth power delivery that electric motors offer. This experience underscores a growing preference for eHGVs among operators who are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their operations.

Understanding the Range Limitations

The operational range of eHGVs presents both opportunities and challenges. While a diesel truck can cover distances up to 1,500 miles without refuelling, an electric lorry like the Renault e-Tech T has a maximum range of about 200 miles (320 km) on a full charge. This limitation requires companies to adapt their logistics strategies accordingly. Welch's Transport has imposed a geographical limit on the use of its electric lorries, confining operations to a 160 km radius from their depot. This range restriction necessitates meticulous route planning to ensure that deliveries are completed efficiently while adhering to the limitations of electric vehicles.

The Economic Considerations

The shift to eHGVs also entails a complex financial landscape. While the operational costs per mile can be lower for electric vehicles, the initial capital investment is considerably higher. Reports indicate that the cost of an eHGV can be two to three times that of a traditional diesel truck. This high upfront cost is a significant deterrent for many operators. However, the ongoing costs of maintenance for electric vehicles tend to be lower, and the running costs can become more favourable, especially when factoring in the price of electricity sourced from renewable energy. As of now, Welch's Transport pays 17 pence per kilowatt hour (KWh) at their depot, compared to a staggering 79 pence per KWh at public charging stations.

Environmental Benefits and Policy Support

One of the major driving forces behind the adoption of eHGVs is their potential to reduce carbon emissions. The UK government is increasingly committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a target for all new HGVs to be electric by 2040. This policy push is complemented by financial support mechanisms, including a £30 million grant aimed at enhancing depot charging infrastructure. The significant role of renewable energy in the UK's electricity generation cannot be overlooked. In 2022, renewable sources accounted for 50.8% of the total electricity supply, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's energy landscape. This growing reliance on renewables positions eHGVs as a cleaner alternative to diesel, appealing not only to operators but also to environmentally conscious customers like the British Antarctic Survey.

Challenges Ahead: Infrastructure and Costs

Despite the promising outlook for eHGVs, substantial challenges remain. A critical barrier is the lack of accessible public charging infrastructure. Currently, there are only two operational public charging points specifically designed for eHGVs in the UK, with more planned but yet to be realised. This scarcity makes long-haul electric transport impractical. Moreover, as Chris Welch, managing director of Welch's Transport, points out, the pricing of charging facilities poses another hurdle. The high costs associated with public charging can significantly affect the economic viability of electric lorries for operators aiming to expand their fleets.

Future Prospects for Electric Heavy Goods Vehicles

Looking forward, the future of eHGVs in the UK hinges on collaborative efforts between the government, industry stakeholders, and charging infrastructure providers. The Department of Transport is eager to support the sector with various grants and initiatives aimed at making the transition to electric vehicles more feasible and affordable. Tom Parke from the Green Finance Institute highlights the pressing need for affordable public charging solutions. He notes that new facilities are emerging, such as the one opened in Immingham, which offers competitive pricing for fast charging. This development is a positive indicator of the evolving infrastructure landscape. As the demand for eHGVs grows, so too must the capacity of the electricity grid to meet this demand. Current projections indicate that grid extension plans may not adequately anticipate future requirements, necessitating immediate attention from policymakers.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for eHGVs

Electric heavy goods vehicles are at a pivotal moment in their development. While they offer numerous benefits, including reduced emissions and lower operational costs, challenges related to range, infrastructure, and costs must be addressed to facilitate broader adoption. The collaboration between the logistics sector and government initiatives will be essential in creating a sustainable transport network. As the logistics industry continues to evolve, the question remains: can eHGVs fully replace traditional diesel trucks, and what innovations will emerge to overcome existing barriers? The future of road freight may very well depend on the answers to these questions.

FAQs

What is an electric heavy goods vehicle (eHGV)?

An electric heavy goods vehicle (eHGV) is a large transport vehicle powered by an electric motor instead of a traditional diesel engine, designed for transporting goods over significant distances.

How far can eHGVs travel on a single charge?

eHGVs can typically travel up to 200 miles (320 km) on a single charge, which is significantly less than the range of diesel lorries.

What are the main challenges facing eHGV adoption?

The main challenges include limited public charging infrastructure, high initial costs, and the need for extensive route planning due to range limitations.

How does the cost of charging eHGVs compare to diesel?

Charging costs can vary significantly, with depot charging rates being lower (around 17 pence per kWh) than public charging rates, which can reach up to 79 pence per kWh.

What role does government policy play in the adoption of eHGVs?

Government policy is crucial, providing financial support for infrastructure development and setting targets for the transition to electric vehicles in the logistics sector.