Cambridge haulage company celebrates landmark first in green logistics

This week The Welch Group, in partnership with eFreight2030 and Renault Trucks, launches onto the road Cambridge’s first 42-tonne, 100% electric HGV available for use by their customers. Part of the Government’s Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) Programme, and funded by Innovate UK, the brand-new eHGV marks a significant milestone in the UK’s decarbonisation of road freight transport. The Renault E-Tech T acquisition supports Welch’s growing commitment to zero-emission deliveries, handling haulage and pallet distribution in the local area and across the UK.

With zero tailpipe emissions, the new truck is powered by six 90 kWh batteries and three electric motors, delivering up to 490kW continuous power and maximum torque of 2400Nm, coupled to Renault Trucks’ Optidriver AT 2412 12 speed automated gearbox. At the launch this week, attended by fellow members of the eFreight 2030 consortium, Chris Welch, Managing Director of The Welch Group, announced, “We’re incredibly proud to be at the forefront of this landmark shift towards decarbonising road freight. The introduction of our first fully electric 42-tonne eHGV is not just a step forward for the Group, but a crucial milestone for the industry.

“This vehicle demonstrates how innovation, sustainability, and operational efficiency can go hand in hand as we work to make zero-emission freight a reality.

The Welch Group is committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible within the SME environment and leading the way in sustainable logistics for the UK.”

Recently recognised as one of the Top 3 Motor Transport Decarbonisation Power Players of 2024 by Freight Carbon Zero, Chris Welch has been growing the Welch Group’s Net Zero services since 2023.

“I’m proud to be able to offer our clients this green logistics option for their transport solutions. Significantly, our new Renault E-Tech T vehicles allow us to offer 26 pallet loads to be transported net zero, whereas previously we could do just 14 in a single delivery. This makes the 100% electric option much more cost effective for customers to consider.”

“We’ve developed our logistics services in line with our customers’ needs for 90 years now and will continue to adapt and support their business goals into the future.” Chris Welch continues, “Effectively, what this means is that the transport and logistics industry is changing. There is already a clear demand for electric HGVs and we are now in a position to support the progress.

Our collaboration with the organisations who are part of eFreight 2030 is forging the way forward and making 100% electric a reality for road freight. It’s exciting times!”

Come and meet the e-Team To anyone who is curious about eFreight2030, the new Renault E-Tech 42-tonne truck, and Welch Group’s commitment to net zero logistics:

You are invited to visit Welch Group’s HQ in Duxford on the afternoon of 23rd October to get up close and personal.

News and details about the event will be posted on their website: www.welchgroup.co.uk[1], and on their social media channels.

References

1. ^ www.welchgroup.co.uk (www.welchgroup.co.uk)