Wed, 03 Sep 2025

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 Lack of charging facilities a 'barrier' for electric lorries

Haulage firms are introducing electric heavy goods vehicles, but say many more chargers are needed.

* Electric lorries are being introduced by Welch's Transport, a UK-based company, as part of their efforts to reduce emissions.
* The lorry driven during the visit had an instant torque and smooth power uptake, according to driver Liam Ely.
* However, electric lorries have limited range, typically up to 200 miles on a single charge, compared to diesel trucks which can travel over 1,500 miles without refueling.
* Welch's Transport has implemented a strategy of limiting the use of their three eHGVs to regional routes within a 160km radius of their depot due to range limitations.
* The environmental benefits of eHGVs include reduced tailpipe emissions and cleaner energy sources, with 50.8% of UK electricity generation coming from renewable sources in 2024.
* Despite the benefits, specialist public charging facilities for eHGVs are scarce, and the cost of public charging is high compared to depot charging.
* The lack of infrastructure and affordability of eHGVs hinders their adoption among long-haul operators.
* Sales of eHGVs are increasing, with 1,271 units sold in the UK last year, contributing to a rise in total HGV sales.
* Industry leaders and government agencies are working together to address the challenges facing eHGV adoption, including investing in depot charging infrastructure and making public charging more affordable.
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