30th July 2021
Leyland Trucks has been chosen by the UK government for a trial of electric trucks due to start this summer.
The project is designed to help UK operators make the change to battery electric HGVs.
A total of 20 DAF LF Electric 19-tonne rigids will take part in the programme.
In addition, the required charging infrastructure will be included.
Datalogging equipment to be fitted to the trucks to monitor their performance.
Therefore, the Department for Transport can highlight benefits and encourage use of electric trucks.
Meanwhile, an interactive website will help operators with buying decisions.
The website is also designed to stimulate the sale of electric trucks in the UK.
The Small Business Research Institute is being used to deliver the project.
As a result, Leyland Trucks will work in collaboration with CENEX.
Together, the two companies will create a report and website using real-world data.
This information will help drivers and operators get a better understanding of zero-emission driving.
Leyland Trucks manufacturers the DAF LF range, which includes the LF Electric.
The UK manufacturer will partner with prominent high-end users in the public sector.
For example, the NHS is planning to trial 11 DAF LF rigids all around the country.
Meanwhile, the remaining nine vehicles will be used by local authorities.
The trucks will support recycling efforts as well as deliveries to schools.
Rob Lawton, project manager at Leyland Trucks, was delighted with the decision.
“We’re proud to be leading the drive towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.
“Our LF Electric and CF Electric vehicles offer the best solution for zero-emissions operation,” he said.
Importantly, the £10m project offers an end-to-end solution.
Therefore, it covers vehicles, charging, user training, repair and maintenance and TCO.