Fresh cash for zero emission transport ideas

Tual launched swappable batteries for electric heavy goods vehicles (pictured) recently, to help address challenges facing commercial fleets looking to switch to zero emissions. PowerBank Pro-Charging comes in 120kWh and 180kWh versions and can add up to 120 miles of range, depending on application. Battery swaps can be completed in less than five minutes and Tual said the system was compatible with existing eHGV platforms.

Also among the 10 SMEs winning a share of Government funding is Xeroe Sustainability Logistics, which will work with DHL on a cargo bike trial alongside Virtual Micro Hubs. The goal of this initiative is to demonstrate the economic viability of the system, significantly increase the proportion of deliveries made by cargo bikes and measure the emission reductions achieved.

Another successful bid came from Innervated Vehicle Engineering, which will be working in partnership with Asda to retrofit hydrogen power to small delivery vans. The system is designed for home delivery fleet operators aiming to achieve a zero emissions vehicle fleet without impacting operational capability or efficiency.

The trial will focus on home delivery logistics in Sheffield with Asda.

The funding is the third tranche of the Department’s Freight Innovation Fund (FIF) Accelerator Programme, a £7m investment across three years to support the freight sector in deploying artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to improve the way trains, lorries, vans and ships carry parcels and goods.

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