More zero emission trucks are set to drive on UK roads thanks to a multi-million-pound boost to decarbonise freight vehicles, drive innovation and create new jobs as part of a week of Government action to support the sector. With heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) alone contributing 20% to all transport emissions across the UK, the £200 million in Government funding will be invested across four innovative green projects to roll out up to 370 zero emission HGVs and help set road freight on the path towards net zero.
Delivered in partnership with Innovate UK, the Government investment from the zero emission HGV and infrastructure demonstrator programme will also deliver around 57 refuelling and electric charging sites, providing the crucial infrastructure to help the haulage sector decarbonise.
This funding comes as part of the government’s commitment to make the right long-term decisions for a brighter future. Decarbonising the freight sector is a key part of building a sustainable future for the industry and achieving our net zero commitments in a fair and pragmatic way which lowers costs, creates jobs, and grows the economy.
“Freight and logistics are the beating heart of our economy, and it is only right that we celebrate the sector so that it gets the recognition and support it deserves,” said Richard Holden, Roads and Local Transport Minister. “From boosting zero emission tech across freight to attracting the future generation of talent to the industry, we are working hard to drive innovation, create jobs and grow the economy by building a brighter, more innovative future for one of our most crucial industries.”
The measures come during a week of action from the Government, including Ministers visiting multiple freight stakeholders, to understand how the sector can continue to drive innovation and play a crucial role in creating new jobs, growing the economy, and helping the UK get closer to net zero.
