ZENFreight (Zero Emission National Freight)

About the project

ZENFreight is a consortium of leading truck manufacturers (DAF, Mercedes, Scania, Iveco and Volvo), committed freight operators (Stobart, Maritime Transport, DFDS, Great Bear and Gregory Distribution) and data analytics experts (Imperial College and Dynamon) working together to accelerate the decarbonisation of HGVs. Fleet optimisation through data driven insights will allow the consortium to maximize utilisation whilst stress testing infrastructure and vehicles.

The Zero Emission National (ZEN) Freight consortium is unique amongst the four projects in that is conducting parallel demonstrations with both battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell heavy goods vehicles. Led by specialists in commercial fleet optimisation software Dynamon, the consortium includes leading fleet operators DFDS, Eddie Stobart, Great Bear Distribution, Gregory Distribution, Maritime Transport and Wren Kitchens along with imperial college London and DAF Trucks, Daimler Trucks, Scania and Volvo Trucks.

As well as demonstrating up to 78 vehicles, to be on the road by March 2026, the consortium will develop a nationwide network of electric charging and hydrogen refuelling locations across its 25 depots and 7 fleets.

Key project goals and activities

• Demonstrate that traditional HGVs (40-44 tonne) can be replaced by eHGV and FCEV (Hydrogen) powered vehicles
• In partnership with OEMs drive the future development of eHGVs and FCEV in relation to range and load carrying capability
• Make recommendations based on real world data analytics regarding the future energy needs of the UK HGV industry e.g. nationwide charger infrastructure and strategically placed hydrogen filling locations
• Use a data driven approach when comparing traditional HGV routing to the needs of the industry when switching to eHGV and FCEV vehicles

Benefits

• Significantly reduce carbon emissions from HGVs, contributing to the UK’s broader goal of decarbonizing road freight
• The creation of a comprehensive network of electric charging and hydrogen refuelling stations across approx. 20 depots nationwide
• Data and Insights: The trials will gather valuable data on the performance and efficiency of zero-emission trucks
• Industry Collaboration: The project brings together major industry players, including logistics companies and truck manufacturers, fostering collaboration and innovation in the field of sustainable transport
• Economic Benefits: Potentially create new jobs and economic opportunities within the UK green transport sector

For more information on ZENFreight

For more information on the project or to request an introduction, please contact Simon Buckley, Knowledge Transfer Manager for Zero Emission Mobility.