UK Power Networks launches project to improve electric HGV infrastructure planning and rollout
UK Power Networks has launched a new innovation project aimed at helping Britain’s freight sector transition to electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs) by improving how charging infrastructure is planned and connected to the electricity grid.
image: UKPN
The initiative, known as “Future Fleet”, is being developed in partnership with logistics operator Maritime Transport, charging technology firm Voltempo, consultancy Baringa and the government-backed innovation organisation Energy Systems Catapult.
The project will analyse freight movement patterns and charging demand to identify where future electricity network upgrades may be needed as more operators adopt electric lorries.
The programme comes as the UK prepares for the phase-out of new non-zero-emission HGV sales, with vehicles up to 26t due to transition by 2035 and all new HGVs by 2040 under current government policy.
Electric HGVs will require significantly higher charging capacity than passenger vehicles, particularly at depots, logistics hubs and motorway service areas. Energy companies and freight operators have warned that limited grid capacity and delays in securing electricity connections could become major barriers to fleet electrification.
UK Power Networks said the Future Fleet project would create “archetypes” of freight operations to better forecast where charging demand is likely to emerge. The work will include geospatial modelling to compare expected charging demand with available electricity network capacity.
The company said the project would also examine ways to reduce the need for costly grid reinforcement through smart charging systems, battery storage, renewable energy integration and vehicle-to-grid technologies.
The first phase of the project will run for six months and is intended to inform a potential live trial involving commercial fleet operators.
Large logistics operators are already beginning to deploy electric trucks in commercial operations. Maritime Transport has introduced more than 20 electric HGVs this year and plans to expand deployment in 2026 alongside high-powered charging installations at several of its sites.
Amazon announced one of the UK’s largest electric truck orders in 2025, adding more than 140 electric HGVs to its delivery fleet as part of a wider decarbonisation programme.
The success of freight electrification, however, will depend not only on vehicle availability but also on the pace of investment in grid upgrades, depot charging and public charging infrastructure capable of supporting megawatt-scale power demand.