Electric truck trial for Neill & Brown Global Logistics

Through a three-month Vertellus EV discovery programme, Neill & Brown Global Logistics is trialing its first electric truck. The 18-tonne Renault Trucks E-Tech D rigid was supplied by Premium Leasing Ltd and a DC charger was installed at the company’s Hessle depot as part of the agreement.

Peter Brown, CEO at Neill & Brown said: “Reducing our environmental impact is a priority, not only for our business but also for our customers who need to demonstrate decarbonisation in the supply chain. So we need to make considered commercial decisions to minimise our fleet’s carbon footprint, and the Vertellus EV discovery programme is allowing us to evaluate an electric truck under real world conditions without the risks and commitment of purchasing a vehicle over the long term.”

The E-Tech will be put to work on local deliveries in HU postcodes on jobs for The Pallex Network. 

Fleet manager, Michael Organ, said: “The electric truck is doing the work we would normally do with one of our 18-tonne rigids, it’s out by 7am and back on charge by 3pm, delivering two or three palletised loads a day. It’s a very smooth drive, and quiet too, with less noise and vibrations. It’s doing what it says on the tin.

“EV technology is here, and we’re not going to know if it works for our operation unless we dip our toe in the water. The Vertellus EV discovery programme is helping us to inform these vital decisions for the future of our fleet.”

Brown added: “For back to base operations delivering locally it works, and highlights the urgent need for government incentives and support, as well as investment in infrastructure, to help operators switch to electric."

As well as this electric truck, Neil & Brown is addressing its carbon footprint in other areas of the business. The company has installed solar panels at its Marfleet warehouse and electrified its forklift trucks. To ensure its trucks are up to date and efficient, Neil & Brown renews its fleet every five years. 

To explore a vast range of the latest vehicles, equipment and fleet services, make sure to come along to the Road Transport Expo this summer from 4-6 June at NAEC Stoneleigh. Book your free ticket today!