The introduction of first fully electric heavy goods vehicles are marking a milestone for low-emission transport in Northern Ireland.
Freeburn Transport a County Tyrone haulier, has taken delivery of the first Renault Trucks E-Tech T operating in Northern Ireland, the vehicle will initially be used on trunking routes between Freeburn depots before expanding into wider operations as experience grows.
The move supports the company’s ambition to reduce transport emissions while evaluating how battery-electric technology can be integrated into its fleet.
Backed by the Department for Transport-funded eFREIGHT 2030 programme, the project includes charging infrastructure, route modelling and driver training to ensure efficient day-to-day operation.
Electric HGVs have an important role in decarbonising road freight, particularly on predictable regional routes where overnight charging is practical.
By replacing diesel vehicles with zero tailpipe emission alternatives, operators can reduce carbon emissions while helping customers achieve their own sustainability goals.
Richard Lee, Operations Manager at Freeburn Transport, said: “The plan is to use it on regular work at the start, see how it performs and then build from there. There is no point having it as a showpiece. We want to see what it can do.”
If successful, the trial could lead to further electric truck deployments, supporting a cleaner and more sustainable future for freight transport.
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