Logistics giant Wincanton has joined forces with Glasgow-based electric vehicle charging company TUAL in a government-backed project to trial new powerbank technology for electric HGVs.
The collaboration is part of a £14 million joint government and industry investment programme aimed at transforming the UK’s freight sector.
TUAL, which specialises in electric commercial-vehicle Charging solutions, will work with Wincanton to test high-performance powerbanks designed to extend the range of electric lorries.
The project is being funded through the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Freight Innovation Fund Accelerator Programme, a £7 million three-year initiative delivered by Connected Places Catapult. The programme aims to boost efficiency in the freight sector by implementing advanced technologies across rail, road and sea transport.
“We are delighted to be working with the DfT, Connected Places Catapult and Wincanton on this forward-thinking project to trial our high-performance powerbanks for electric trucks,” said Philip Clarke, Founder and CEO of TUAL.
“The funding we’ve received from the DfT’s Freight Innovation Fund Accelerator Programme expedites the development of our cutting-edge solution, enabling us to extend the range and operational capabilities of eHGVs while introducing new efficiencies to fleet management.”
The initiative aims to address current challenges in the logistics industry, particularly focusing on range limitations and charging infrastructure for electric lorries. Wincanton, which works with many of the UK’s leading brands and public bodies, will help demonstrate the practical applications of the swappable powerbank technology.
