The ZENFreight consortium has regained momentum in its zero emission HGV trials after BP’s exit.
- Four consortia undertake large-scale trials of electric and hydrogen-powered trucks in the UK.
- Dynamon assumes project leadership, ensuring continuity despite BP’s departure.
- 78 zero emission vehicles are slated for addition to fleet operations by March 2026.
- The project aims to create a comprehensive refuelling network to facilitate the transition to zero emission HGVs.
The ZENFreight consortium, a pivotal participant in the Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator programme, has successfully navigated the challenges posed by BP’s withdrawal from its leadership role. The consortium, composed of notable industry players including DFDS and Eddie Stobart, among others, is set to trial battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell trucks extensively over the next five years. This initiative aligns with the broader governmental objective to decarbonise road freight and reduce emissions.
In the wake of BP’s unexpected departure in May, the consortium members acted swiftly, appointing Dynamon, a fleet optimisation software specialist, to spearhead the project. This strategic move ensured the continuity of the programme, with the core vision of running parallel demonstrations of both battery-electric and hydrogen trucks remaining intact. As a result, ZENFreight is slated to integrate a fleet of 78 vehicles, comprised of 62 battery electric and 16 hydrogen trucks, across its participating operators.
The project secured sustained financial backing, maintaining its original £63 million budget, inclusive of £43 million from government funds, with the visualisation of all vehicles operating on the roads by March 2026. Significant efforts are underway to establish a network of electric charging and hydrogen refuelling stations in 25 depots nationwide. This infrastructure endeavour not only supports the ZENFreight demonstration phase but also sets a foundation for broader adoption of zero emission heavy goods vehicles.
A key component of the project involves the use of Dynamon’s sophisticated data and planning tools to simulate and optimise vehicle deployment. Historical fleet data analysis and performance simulations are conducted to pinpoint opportunities for emissions reductions, facilitating informed deployment decisions. Initially, the focus will be on simpler route trials, with subsequent applications of insights to more intricate scenarios, which include shared fleet depot infrastructure for top-up charging.
Dr Angus Webb of Dynamon expressed confidence, stating, “ZENFreight is once again moving ahead at pace; we have a strong vision, a clear purpose, and a defined pathway forward.” Dr Isabella Panovic from Innovate UK supported this sentiment, highlighting the project’s role in establishing evidence for the decarbonisation of heavy road freight, aimed at instilling confidence within the sector to invest in zero emission solutions.
ZENFreight’s strategic repositioning emphasises its commitment to advancing sustainable transportation through innovative trials and infrastructure development.
