The truck manufacturer put an event together attended by industry, project partners and Government representatives to further demonstrate the capabilities afforded by the Zetta project. The two-year initiative, launched in 2023 with support from the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), HSSMI and Expert Technologies Group, was backed by joint Government and industry funding (the APC provided £2.6m in funding for the project).
Through Zetta, Leyland Trucks has expanded its battery electric vehicle (BEV) production capacity with two new advanced assembly lines for electric drive modules and high-voltage battery systems. Automated safety processes, including protective earth and leak testing and fitting of main service disconnect units, have also been introduced.
The company said it has digitised its 86-acre site, enabling new processes and equipment to be tested virtually before installation. This approach has cut downtime and accelerated innovation.
A feasibility study into high-voltage battery pack assembly has also mapped out a pathway for future scaling as demand for BEVs grows.
Phil Jones, managing director at Leyland Trucks, said: “Zetta has been an important step forward. By combining advanced automation with our manufacturing expertise and working closely with partners, we’ve strengthened BEV production capabilities and created a foundation to meet future demand."
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