Two UK haulage operators have begun trialling electric HGVs as part of a collaboration between Project JOLT and DP World’s EVITA initiative aimed at accelerating zero-emission container transport.
The programme has seen Southampton-based operators SJG Haulage and Port Express put a Volvo FH Electric and Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 through operational trials on container haulage work. Two further operators, ATL Haulage Contractors and Williams Shipping, are also due to take part between April and June 2026.
DP World’s EVITA scheme – Electric Vehicle Transition & Introduction Accelerator – forms part of the company’s wider Low Carbon Truck Programme.
John Trenchard, vice president of sustainable international supply chains at DP World Europe, said the initiative was designed to help container hauliers gain first-hand experience of operating electric trucks.
“As an expansion to our Low Carbon Truck Programme we have launched our EVITA trial – a pragmatic approach to support container truck operators to trial zero tailpipe emission vehicles for container work,” he said.
Project JOLT is a joint venture between academia and industry investigating the economic viability of electric heavy goods vehicles as the UK moves towards its 2050 net zero targets. The project includes two universities, 15 fleet operators, five truck manufacturers and three technology and project management partners.
The Centre for Sustainable Road Freight is leading the research programme, with teams analysing factors including battery performance, operational efficiency and real-world range.
During the latest trial phase, the participating hauliers charged vehicles at DP World Southampton’s driver welfare facility, which features twin charging points capable of fully charging an electric HGV in around two hours. DP World said electricity was supplied at cost parity with diesel.
SJG Haulage used the Volvo FH Electric on shuttle operations between Southampton Docks and Fawley, while Port Express tested the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 on longer-distance trips to Milton Keynes and the South West.
Project JOLT said effective driving techniques could improve range by up to 15%, with journeys of around 250 miles completed confidently on a single charge.
James Watts, MD of Port Express, said: “We welcomed the opportunity to roll up our sleeves and experience running an electric truck. We have learnt a lot about loadings, ranges and charging.
“Although there are restrictions created by the lack of infrastructure, we can see the potential moving forward.”
Natalie Noke, director of SJG Haulage, added: “This has been a beneficial exercise for our SME business. It has improved our understanding of electric trucks and what they are capable of.
“Their limited range and the availability of charge points mean that they are not an option today for tramping but we can now see tomorrow’s potential.”
The team from DP World will be joining us at Sustainable Logistics LIVE later this year, taking part in panel discussions across a range of key logistics topics throughout the day. They will also lead a dedicated BriteLab session exploring carbon insetting schemes and mass balance measures.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the conversation, secure your tickets and view the full agenda here: SLL2026 London – Shape Tomorrow