Twenty DAF LF Electric trucks are entering service with a range of UK public bodies, as part of the Department for Transport-funded Battery Electric Truck Trial (BETT).

It is hoped that the information gathered from the £10m project, which is part of the Government’s wider £20m zero emission road freight trial, will act as a useful tool for operators planning to invest in zero-tailpipe-emissions trucks, so stimulating sales.

Leyland Trucks, where the LF Electric is assembled, is working with CENEX, the low carbon research and consultancy organisation, to create an interactive BETT report and website, using real-time data gathered while the trucks are in operation. This will not only cover the vehicles, but also the charging infrastructure, user training, repair and maintenance and total cost of ownership.

The project will use 14 Paccar battery-charging units stationed at 13 operator locations. The vehicles will be maintained and supported through the DAF dealer network, and the drivers will undergo DAF Academy Driver Training.

One of the key operators involved in the trial is NHS Supply Chain, which is supported by Prohire. In total it will put eight battery-powered DAFs with Gray & Adams refrigerated bodies on the road at several different locations. NHS Trusts will put five into operation, while the other seven trucks will go into service with two local authority framework organisations and local councils.

Commenting on BETT, transport minister Trudy Harrison, said: “Demonstrating the high performance of battery electric technology in demanding, real world environments is critical to ensuring confidence continues to build within the industry around the future of zero emission trucks.

“I’m excited to see more British-built green trucks take to our roads with the support of the Government’s £20m zero emission road freight trials. This demonstration will help us understand the full benefits of this new technology as we power up the electric revolution across the UK and boost green jobs in our towns and villages.”

“This is a significant step in the project as we roll-out vehicles for real-time operations,” added Rob Lawton, principal engineer of alternative powertrains at Leyland Trucks. “We’re working closely with our project partners in order to collect the most accurate data possible. Electrification is becoming a major consideration for operators, and it’s crucial they’re able to scrutinise reliable evidence before investing in this relatively new technology.”

DAF will be exhibiting at Road Transport Expo at NAEC Stoneleigh (30 June to 2 July). Register now for FREE. 

On Saturday 2 July, brand-new industry event the Road Transport Expo will be hosting an exciting live auction experience for those in the market for a quality used truck or trailer.

Organised by ProTruck Auctions, part of The Fleet Auction Group, the auction will be hosted both online and via a live bidding environment at NAEC Stoneleigh.

The auction will feature more than 150 wheeled assets from leading blue-chip operators, including tractor units, rigids, car transporters, tippers and trailers.

Visitors will be able to explore live auction updates whilst at the show via a virtual ‘rolling stock catalogue’ on ProTruck’s stand RB201 in the outside Used Trucks Zone at the Road Transport Expo.

All vehicles and machinery sold at ProTrucks' auctions undergo a full inspection and appraisal process, whilst high resolution photographs and audio recording of running engines are all available to website visitors.

And if you are completely new to bidding at auction, then the friendly team at ProTruck will be happy to help.

“Simply call us ahead of the show on 01427 871500, or come over to meet us at the live Road Transport Expo and we’ll guide you through the straightforward process of registering and knowing what to expect at auction,” said ProTruck business development manager Richard Ward.

The team is also on hand to discuss any future fleet disposal requirements your business might have and explain how the auction route might be beneficial.

Protruck Auctions and The Fleet Auction Group host truck auctions every Wednesday throughout the year, in addition to hosting at clients' locations for a wide range of commercial vehicles - from general haulage and vans, through to bespoke trailers, plant and machinery.

“We are excited to meet with visitors to our stand at the Road Transport Expo to help them explore the range of services we offer both for the acquisition and disposal of quality commercial fleet vehicles,” added Ward, "and are confident that we can maximise the best possible returns for your business.”

To Advertise Call our Sales Team on 0208 912 2120