Innovation project aims to clear the path for eHGVs

“Supporting the shift to electric HGVs means understanding not just how fleets operate, but how networks adapt to support their charging infrastructure,” said David Francis, head of investment management and innovation at UK Power Networks. “Future Fleet gives us the clarity we need to accurately forecast where charging demand will grow and how we can facilitate faster, efficient connections to the network. By working closely with industry partners, we’re developing the insight and tools to manage high-capacity charging in a smarter, more flexible way.”

The initial six‑month phase will define the design requirements for a potential live trial, laying the groundwork for scalable, real‑world solutions that support operators of all sizes, from SMEs to national fleets.

Tom Williams, deputy chief executive officer at Maritime Transport, said: “We’re very pleased to be collaborating with UK Power Networks and our Future Fleet partners on a project addressing one of the biggest challenges in decarbonising road freight: understanding where and when eHGV charging will be needed, and what that will mean for operators and the electricity grid.

“With more than 20 eHGVs successfully deployed so far this year, and over 50 due to be introduced nationally in 2026 alongside high-powered charging across a number of our locations, Maritime is already seeing at first hand the relationship between fleet operations, site requirements, and power demand. We welcome the opportunity to contribute that operational experience to a project that will help build a much clearer picture of where charging demand is likely to emerge and how infrastructure can be planned more effectively as electrification gathers pace.”