John G Russell (Transport) Ltd, the Russell Group, takes the lead with their new all-electric MAN eTGX Trucks
John G Russell (Transport) Ltd, the Russell Group of Coatsbridge, Glasgow, has recently become the first Scottish customer to take delivery of its eagerly anticipated battery-powered MAN eTGX tractors. Marking a significant landmark for the Russell Group and a major milestone for MAN Truck & Bus UK, the three all-electric 4x2 tractors are operating from the company's Coatsbridge container base, moving containers during the day and working on blue-chip contracts at night.
Speaking of the new arrivals, Stephen Madden, Russell Group Fleet Engineer, enthused, "By investing in cutting-edge technologies such as these three all-electric MAN eTGX tractors, we aim to create a future where supply chains are not only highly effective but also environmentally friendly. "The first of the new vehicles arrived in September 2025. Having worked with MAN's electric-vehicle specialist, Roger Turnbull, and our local MAN dealership, and having heard their assurances of satisfaction, we enthusiastically put it into service.
I'm delighted to report it's been faultless and has easily exceeded our expectations. "This has been a steep learning curve for us all. Our drivers have consistently praised its performance, and those who initially shied away from it have listened to peers' positive feedback and now actively want to drive the vehicles themselves.
All have returned from a day's work with a firm smile." The Russell Group's vision is to be recognised as the partner of choice for sustainable road, rail, and warehousing solutions and to lead the way in delivering efficient, innovative, and environmentally responsible logistics services. These cutting-edge, fully electric eTGX 4x2 tractors offer Russell Group a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 42,000 kg across five axles, providing a solution that promises to reduce emissions and help them advance toward their sustainability goals and Net Zero commitment.
Driven by a permanently excited synchronous motor delivering 330 kW (449 PS) and 1,150 Nm of torque, Russell Group's three eTGX vehicles have a 375 kW DC charging capacity. For easy charging, all three vehicles have CCS charging connectors on both the left and right front sides. The chassis houses 6 x 80 kWh (480 kWh) batteries that power a central drive unit and a 4-speed MAN TipMatic(R) automated transmission, which in turn drives the rear axle.
Stephen continued, "At the end of 2025, we took delivery of two more 4x2 eTGX tractors, and like the first vehicle, they hit the road running. I can't say enough positive things about them. Each vehicle is averaging around 400 km per day, which is in line with our fleet average.
With our on-site charging facilities, we have no concerns. Overall, it's been an incredibly positive experience." "Furthermore, the support we've received from MAN and its local dealership in Bellshill has been nothing short of outstanding.
Everyone involved has come to the table, listened to our exacting requirements, and delivered. When we've encountered a minor issue, usually just a simple misunderstanding, MAN has responded promptly and with confidence. This has been noted and is very much appreciated."
All three of the Russell Group's new vehicles have 3,750 mm wheelbases. They sit on a 9,000 kg front axle and an 11,500 kg rear axle. MAN's range-topping GX High roof sleeper cab sits on top of the4x2 chassis.
Stephen added, "These are the first all-electric vehicles to join the fleet, so it was of utmost importance for us to specify vehicles that not only met our sustainability requirements but also met the needs of our drivers. They needed to be comfortable, safe, and, above all, provide drivers with a familiar workplace." Once seated comfortably, the Russell Group drivers are cosseted by a myriad of creature comforts, including a multifunction leather steering wheel, a driver's seat with air suspension, lumbar support, and shoulder adjustment, a driver's airbag, 12.3" professional instrumentation, climatronic air conditioning, a fully retractable under-bunk fridge, and 2 bunks with 110 mm comfort mattresses.
These vehicles are equipped with MAN's Professional Navigation Media System featuring a 12.3-inch display, the MAN Advanced sound system with a subwoofer, MAN SmartSelect infotainment control with a touchpad and direct access buttons, and integrated smartphone connectivity. Additionally, all three vehicles include MAN's OptiView mirror-replacement system, an aerodynamic package, a sunshade, automatic wipers with rain sensors, and LED lighting. Founded in 1969 by John Russell, who currently serves as Chairman, John G.
Russell (Transport) Ltd began with 14 employees and 12 vehicles. Nearly six decades later, the Russell Group has expanded significantly, now operating from 14 depots and UK rail terminals, employing over 740 staff, and managing a fleet of more than 250 vehicles, 850 trailers, and 1,000 intermodal containers. Operating continuously throughout the year, the Russell Group serves several of Europe's largest Blue-Chip companies.
Stephen concluded, "At the heart of our success is our people. They are our greatest asset, and their dedication reinforces our core values, ensuring we deliver on our promises to our customers every time. Through our environmental policy and sustainability strategy, we have put a number of initiatives in place to tackle CO2 emissions with the aim of being a NET Zero business by 2040."
Jan Kohlmeier, Managing Director of MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd, added, "This represents a significant milestone for both the Russell Group and MAN Truck & Bus UK. I would like to thank all involved, especially Stephen, for their trust in MAN. "While these vehicles pave the way for more eTGXs to join the instantly recognisable Russell Group fleet, we are all watching and eagerly monitoring their success."
"As a leading commercial vehicle manufacturer with a growing portfolio of battery-powered solutions, MAN is committed to investing in cutting-edge, climate-neutral transport technologies and to supporting our customers in decarbonising their operations." Concluded Jan. Overseeing the entire process, from initial consultation to delivering the vehicles and actively checking their progress, Roger Turnbull, Head of EV Consultation & Sales (UK) at MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd, commented, "Working with Stephen and the Russell Group team has been an absolute delight. Their attention to detail throughout the entire process, from the initial conversation through to the first vehicle arriving, has been incredible, a huge learning experience, and an incredible journey.
"Having a close, trusted, and open relationship with Stephen and the team gives us a solid understanding of the operation and how our high level of service, across the board, adds value. This was different from anything we'd done before, and, like Stephen, we eagerly awaited the driver feedback and vehicle data." "We understand there is a strong focus on these vehicles, and we're delighted to see and hear that our vehicles consistently meet Stephen's expectations and, importantly, our promise.
We very much look forward to continuing this relationship," Roger concluded. All three of the Russell Group's new eTGX tractors were prepared and PDI'd by MAN Truck & Bus Bellshill (ML4 3NX). MAN Truck & Bus Bellshill will service and maintain the vehicles under a full R&M contract, which includes high-voltage battery warranties for the duration of the service contract throughout their working lives.
All MAN vehicles are supported by MAN Truck & Bus UK's Nationwide Commercial Vehicle Dealer network, with many dealers operating extended hours, including round-the-clock servicing and customer-tailored maintenance solutions.
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