Welch’s Transport has installed a new 150kW charging point for HGVs at its HQ near Cambridge allowing local operators access to fast charging.
The high-power EVD 150KW DC unit was installed after Welch’s undertook a detailed decarbonisation report that was completed by the Energy Saving Trust which also found that there would likely be enough power within the grid connection for the whole fleet to be electrified.
It found that, with on-site infrastructure a fully battery electric rigid fleet could be accommodated for overnight charging between the two existing grid connections at the Duxford depot, with minimal work beyond installing AC charge points for each vehicle.
Director of Welch’s Transport, Chris Welch said: “Seeing the installation of our new rapid charger has brought to life our vision for a greener future. As well as being a UK first, the charger represents our plans to help Cambridge City Council and businesses in the city centre realise and achieve their Net Zero ambitions.
“Presently, a shortage in charging infrastructure and expensive charging costs, are making it exceedingly difficult for freight and haulage companies to make the switch to EVs. More needs to be done to provide the required charging points, so collectively we can make a change. In January motoring groups banded together to issue a stark message to ministers, urging more to be done to provide the infrastructure required to make the switch. Until infrastructure across the country catches up, we are focussing our sustainability targets on delivering cleaner last-mile deliveries in Cambridge. The combination of our knowledgeable local drivers, new electric HGV and now, new high-tech rapid charger, means we are well positioned to do exactly that.”
Welch's will use a new 19-tonne electric truck from Renault Trucks for general haulage as well as palletised and hazardous goods. The E-tech D Wide Electric has a Bevan Series curtainsider body, with a two-tonne retractable tail lift, and is equipped with 265kWh lithium-ion batteries.
