Driving Change: Port Express Launches Electric HGV Trial
As part of the Port Express sustainability strategy, we have this month taken another important step towards lowering carbon emissions within the supply chain by commencing the trial of a 42-tonne electric HGV.
In collaboration with DP World, we were delighted to take delivery of our first electric truck, which produces zero tailpipe emissions and is powered by twin electric truck charging stations with a combined capacity of 360 kWh.
Our new EV is already operating out of our Southampton depot, collecting and delivering containers to and from the Port of Southampton, enabling us to test real-world performance in a busy port environment.
The trial forms part of DP World’s new Electric Vehicle Transition & Introduction Accelerator (EVITA) programme, a pragmatic approach designed to support container truck operators as they transition to electric vehicles.
DP World are delivering this project in conjunction with the Centre for Sustainable Road Freight (SRF) at the University of Cambridge through its JOLT programme, helping to accelerate learning around electric HGV deployment, infrastructure requirements, and operational viability across the UK freight sector.
Electric HGVs are increasingly recognised as a critical component in the UK’s journey towards net zero, particularly within hard-to-decarbonise sectors such as road freight. While challenges remain around vehicle range, charging infrastructure, and grid capacity, rapid advancements in battery technology is helping to overcome these barriers.
Government policy, private investment, and pilot programmes such as EVITA are playing a key role in enabling operators to trial zero-emission trucks at scale, paving the way for wider adoption across ports, logistics hubs, and major transport corridors.
Our Sustainability Journey
At Port Express, sustainability is not a single project but an ongoing journey. We are committed to driving meaningful change within our operations and helping our customers decarbonise their supply chains.
From investing in cleaner vehicles and infrastructure to working collaboratively with industry partners, ports, and academic institutions, we continue to explore practical solutions that reduce emissions without compromising service.
The trial of our first electric HGV represents another important milestone as we work towards a more sustainable, resilient future for UK logistics. If you would like to talk to us about reducing emissions in your supply chain by using HVO fuelled or electric vehicles, then please get in touch with James Watts james.watts@port-express.com or Adam Dawson adam.dawson@port-express.com.
