Next Steps
Summary
This research used a representative sample of high-quality HGV telematics data to inform a sophisticated Agent-Based Model (ABM). The model has delivered insights into charger utilisation, energy infrastructure demands, and operational implications of transitioning to BEVs.
What the research can tell us
There is a minimum-viable ‘core’ charger network solution. To create a minimum viable charging network approximately 40 additional sites are required.
Even with just 2% of the current HGV transitioning to BEV, eleven substations do not have sufficient capacity to support the core charging network. This is an indication of the scale of additional investment in the energy system which may be required.
Using the model outputs to conduct a simple calculation of total energy demand reveals substantial extra capacity is going to be required or released. While lower than some previous estimates, power consumption in the TWh range will require significant investment.
The minimum viable core charging network will enable the majority of HGV journeys to be completed without having to stop for an en-route charge.
Where further work is needed
A larger sample size and greater quantities of journey data will enable more robust investment decisions to be made.
Continuing expansion of the sectors and locations (e.g. non-mainland) will ensure greater utility and equity in the carbon transition / freight electrification.
The enhanced charger network, with additional high-value locations identified, will reduce the proportion of journeys incurring some form of time or route penalty. Further route analysis and a larger sample will enable these shortcomings to be mitigated.
Get Involved
This analysis is ongoing and will be updated as new datasets become available. Additional journey data from HGV fleets is invited to further enhance the analysis.
For more information on the telematics data required, as well as details on how the data will be stored and anonymised, please contact cls-info@hw.ac.uk.
Transport Scotland is developing a forum for fleet operators, charge point operators, financiers and others interested in developing energy infrastructure projects for HGVs. If you are interested in joining this forum, please email FleetsandInfrastructure@transport.gov.scot
The forum will enable hauliers to express interest in specific locations and understand the potential commitment asked of them. It may build sufficient interest for specific locations to move to development stage.
Those considering installing charging infrastructure at some point in the future should contact their DNO at an early stage to understand what information is helpful in securing the power required.