Maritime Transport has made a significant move in sustainable logistics, placing an order for 18 electric trucks. This is part of a broader effort to enhance environmental sustainability within the UK’s freight sector.
- A landmark order by Maritime Transport for 18 battery-electric, 42-tonne trucks marks a major step in reducing emissions.
- The vehicles, part of the Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator project, signal a shift towards greener logistics.
- Maritime’s involvement with the eFREIGHT 2030 consortium highlights a commitment to sustainable innovation in transportation.
- The first consignment will contribute significantly to the company’s net zero ambitions and operational strategy.
Maritime Transport has undertaken a substantial change in its logistics operations by placing an order for 18 battery-electric, 42-tonne tractor units. This marks the initial delivery in a series that will include a total of 48 battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell trucks, underlining the company’s commitment to sustainable freight transportation. This initiative is an integral part of the Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID), aimed at pioneering zero-emission heavy goods vehicles in the UK.
The electric trucks are sourced from notable manufacturers such as Scania, Renault Trucks, and DAF, and will be integrated into Maritime’s existing fleet. Their usage will expand across Maritime’s eight strategic rail freight terminals and major UK ports, enhancing the efficiency and reach of its operations. This fleet expansion not only showcases Maritime’s dedication to lowering emissions but also positions the company as a trailblazer in adopting advanced vehicle technology.
Supporting the freight sector in its path to net zero, Maritime is a key participant in the eFREIGHT 2030 consortium, orchestrated by Voltempo. The consortium is one of the select groups to have secured backing from the Department for Transport (DfT) and Innovate UK. By the year 2026, a total of 11 fleets within this collaborative effort will deploy electric HGVs, backed by a nationwide charging infrastructure featuring British-built chargers at its core.
Crucial to Maritime’s environmental agenda is the advancement of charging facilities. The company plans to install electric charging stations across its extensive network, which includes 41 transport depots and dedicated container sites. This infrastructure is poised to support a modal shift from road to rail, notably for first and final mile deliveries using battery-electric and hydrogen trucks, subsequently reducing road congestion.
The introduction of these zero-emission vehicles aligns with Maritime’s strategy to integrate sustainable practices into its operations, thereby contributing to a significant reduction in its carbon footprint. This step is lauded by industry leaders, with Michael Boxwell of Voltempo recognising Maritime’s pioneering role in the transition to electric HGVs, which is expected to yield critical insights for future infrastructure planning.
Tom Williams, Deputy Chief Executive of Maritime Transport, expressed enthusiasm about the company’s progressive strategy, emphasising the anticipated gain in insights that will inform government decisions on sustainable freight infrastructure. This sentiment is echoed by Scania’s Chris Newitt, who views this as a formative moment for the UK’s move towards zero-emission HGVs.
The strategic move by Maritime Transport to invest in electric vehicles underscores its key role in driving the transition to sustainable logistics within the UK freight sector.
