The Future of HGV Electric Charging

The Future of HGV Electric Charging

Decarbonising road transport requires Collaborative & decisive action

• Vehicle manufacturers, transport operators, hauliers, shippers, logistic providers
• Road and charging/refuelling infrastructure providers and operators
• Policymakers on local, regional, national and International levels

A coherent and supportive policy framework is essential to drive the transition

Timelines are extremely challenging – yet transition will take time

“Hard choices” have to be made, including significantly increased infrastructure investment

Requirements for HGV transition to ZEV

• Competitive products
• Cost parity
• Reliable infrastructure

Decarbonising heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) is a key challenge on the road to net-zero emissions. Shifting HGVs to electric power is essential to reach climate targets, with road freight representing around 19% of global CO2 emissions from transport. But this shift not only requires progress in vehicle technology but also a substantial investment in charging infrastructure. The EV Network, specialists in the deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, chart the future of HGV electric charging, from the perspective of investor/developer, current infrastructure pain points and, crucially, the enablers required for a successful transition.

Manufacturers and marketplace

Technological advancements, growing governmental regulations for reducing carbon emissions, and increasing focus on sustainable logistics solutions are some of the drivers of the electric HGVs market. Leading OEMs are pouring money into R&D to create electric HGVs with a range, payload and efficiency credentials that at least meet the capabilities of their diesel equivalents.

• Tesla: The Tesla Semi, with a range of up to 500 miles on a single charge, is designed for long-haul operations. Tesla’s focus on battery efficiency and software integration makes it a key player.
• Volvo Trucks: Volvo’s FM Electric and FH Electric models are gaining traction, with ranges of up to 300 km, ideal for regional freight.
• Mercedes-Benz: The eActros LongHaul, expected to launch in 2024, promises a range of 500 km and fast charging capabilities.
• Rivian and Nikola: Both companies are developing innovative solutions targeting specific niches within the freight sector.

 Market Statistics:

• The global electric truck market was valued at $1.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 41.8% from 2023 to 2030.
• In the UK, registrations of electric HGVs increased by 32% in 2024 compared to the previous year, reflecting growing industry adoption.
• Over 25% of UK logistics companies are now trialing electric HGVs, with 15% planning full fleet transitions by 2035.
• The UK government’s commitment to phasing out diesel HGVs by 2040 is expected to spur further investment in electric models.
• Studies estimate that electrification of HGVs could reduce annual logistics costs by 12% over the next decade, driven by lower fuel and maintenance expenses.

“The rapid evolution of battery technology is enabling electric HGVs to achieve ranges that were unthinkable a decade ago,”  “Coupled with government incentives, the sector is poised for exponential growth.”

A report by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) highlights that “electric HGVs can reduce operational emissions by up to 60% compared to diesel vehicles, even when accounting for current electricity grid mixes.”

Current and Future Infrastructure Requirements

The current HGV charging infrastructure in the UK is in its infancy, and there is not a wealth of facilities available to meet the requirements of such heavy-duty EVs. In contrast to passenger EVs that enjoy a fast-growing charging network, achieving such scale for HGVs will necessitate tailored infrastructure offering higher power capacities, bigger vehicle envelopes, and optimized operations.

Challenges:

• High Power Demands: To reduce any downtime, at ultra-rapid chargers where the energy infeed is 350 kW and above must be supplied for HGVs.
• Site Accessibility: Large enough for large vehicles to be able to manoeuvre and park.
• Grid Demand: High-demand sites require significant investment in the electrical grid.

Future Needs:

To support the electrification of the fleet, the UK will need around 15,000 dedicated HGV charging points by 2030.

Crucial in this are hubs of charging stations placed strategically along key freight routes like the M25, M6 and A1.

The government, private sector and utilities must also work together to offer scalable, affordable solutions.

“Deploying ultra-fast charging infrastructure is not just a technical challenge; it’s a logistical one,” “Collaborations between utilities and private operators are crucial to future-proof these investments.”

According to a recent report by McKinsey & Company, “a co-ordinated infrastructure rollout could reduce total system costs by up to 25% while ensuring reliability for fleet operators.”

SWOT Analysis of Depot, On-the-Go, and Dedicated Hub Charging

Electric HGV charging can be split into 3 main categories: depot charging, on-the-go charging and dedicated hub charging. All have their strengths and challenges, so taking a mixed approach to industry needs is key.

Depot Charging

• Advancements: Predictable charge schedules, integration with fleet management, reduced rates during off-peak hours.
• Disadvantages: High upfront costs, require extensive improvements to the traditional grid system.
• Opportunities: Integration of solar plus battery storage for sustainable operations.
• Weaknesses: Available only to fleet operators with their own depots; impossible for third-party logistics providers.

On-the-Go Charging

• Pros: Longer mileage, less downtime thanks to rapid charging.
• Weaknesses: Very dependent on available infrastructure, possible queuing delays.
• BOOST: Improves route flexibility and enables long-haul operations.
• Threats: Infrastructure burdens and dependency on grid capacity.

Dedicated Hub Charging

• Strengths: Built to HGV-specific needs, co-location reduces costs.
• Cons: Needs to be strategically placed to go to use.
• Opportunities: We can use public-private partnerships to do the deployment much faster.
• Competitive Forces: Competing for prime space and high land acquisition cost.

“Dedicated hub charging is the cornerstone of future freight electrification,”  “It provides scalability and cost-sharing advantages, especially for smaller operators.”

“ A hybrid approach, where both depot and hub charging is deployed, can medium to long-term lead to the most optimal efficiency and lowest overall costs.” A study by the UK Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) highlights.

Our Conclusion

“Electric charging infrastructure for HGVs will need a well-organised overarching strategy that integrates the development of vehicles and infrastructure.” Manufacturers are leading the way, yet overcoming challenges in infrastructure will be critical to the success of this transition through strategic investments and collaborative efforts. With depot, on-the-go and dedicated hub charging solutions, this is in the UK no longer a dream but rather a way of life — and has the potential to position the UK as a leader in electrifying its freight sector, setting the standard globally.

The EV Network is uniquely designed to assist charge point operators (CPOs) and manufacturers in finding the best locations for their charging hubs. Using advanced data analytics and deep industry expertise, the EV Network can direct investments to high-demand areas with the greatest potential for operational impact. In addition, EV Network’s turnkey solutions simplify the task of designing, building and managing high-capacity charging infrastructure.

“The EV Network understands that the transition to electrification for HGVs isn’t just about infrastructure — it’s about enabling a seamless transition for operators,” says Reza Shaybani, CEO and Co-Founder, The EV Network. “We aim to provide customized solutions that improve efficiency, lower emissions and build a sustainable future for freight logistics.”