First heavy electric truck for Nigel Rice Transport & Storage

The Renault Trucks E-Tech D16 4x2 joins the Beverley-based company’s delivery and haulage fleet following a successful trial through Vertellus’ EV Discovery Programme, marking a significant milestone in its journey toward sustainability.

The decision to invest in an electric truck followed a successful trial through contract hire company Vertellus and its EV Discovery Programme. This initiative provided Nigel Rice Transport & Storage with an affordable opportunity to test a ready-to-work truck together with an installed DC Zenobē charger on a three-month term. The trial demonstrated strong levels of driver satisfaction and highlighted promising cost efficiencies, reinforcing the potential of electric vehicles within the company’s fleet.

"The Vertellus trial was pivotal," Chris Rice, managing director, Nigel Rice Transport & Storage explained. "Initially, we were hesitant about transitioning to electric, but the smooth implementation and driver training eased those concerns. Although range anxiety was a challenge at first, it quickly dissipated as we grew more confident in the vehicle’s capabilities.”

Nigel Rice Transport & Storage’s new addition is an E-Tech D16 4x2 equipped with an 8m curtain-sided body by Martin Wiliams (Hull) and a tuckaway tail lift. Powered by 265 kWh, 600 V E-Tech lithium-ion batteries, the Alternating Current synchronous motor with permanent-magnet technology delivers maximum power of 185kW, continuous power of 130kW and maximum torque of 425Nm. The E-Tech reduction gearbox offers two forward speeds and one reverse. The E-Tech D16 is equipped with charge ports compatible with type 2 and CCS Combo 2, which allows mode 2, 3 or 4 charging from 22kW to 150kW.

The E-Tech D16 will play a vital role in the company’s operations, handling local pallet network deliveries and collections as part of its commitments with Palletline. Covering around 75 miles daily, the vehicle will be charged overnight at Nigel Rice Transport’s yard, ensuring it’s ready for the next day’s deliveries.

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