Magtec, along with subcontractors Dynamon and UK Power Networks, have spearheaded a project aimed at encouraging the integration of zero-emission heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in the transportation sector. The collaboration developed a predictive tool to aid fleet managers in transitioning to electric vehicles, focusing on manufacturing and certifying 10 battery-powered 18-tonne HGVs equipped with 180kWh battery systems for NHS Wales.
These vehicles were allocated to NHS Wales’ medical supply chain distribution routes, covering distances of up to 90 miles per day. The project’s tool provided accurate data comparing the performance of electric HGVs against diesel counterparts on established routes, demonstrating potential cost savings with electric vehicles.
“Our four MAGTEC eHGVs excelled in urban environments with their smooth operation, lack of emissions, and ability to adjust height for different loading bays,” said Tony Chatfield, Head of NHS Wales supply chain, logistics and transport. “The successful pilot has provided NHS Wales with key learnings for transitioning our fleet to more environmentally-friendly electric vehicles in the future.”
“This project generated important insights for navigating regulatory challenges and advocating for supportive policies to drive the widespread adoption of zero emission technology in the heavy vehicle sector,” added Andrew Gilligan, Managing Director of Magtec.
“Dynamon’s role was to support the challenge of identifying where electric HGVs could best serve the NHS Wales operation,” explained Dynamon CEO Angus Webb. “It was fantastic working with Magtec, UK Power Networks, and NHS Wales to identify the optimum routes, vehicle battery sizes, and Charging infrastructure requirements for a cost-effective deployment of commercial electric HGVs. We look forward to taking the learnings from the project to further support the adoption of these vehicles.”
Funded by the Department for Transport and delivered through Innovate UK using the SBRI funding mechanism, the project demonstrated the accurate prediction of vehicle operational capability, enabling informed purchasing decisions and supporting the uptake of battery electric HGVs.
