TR Group will receive funding from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) to contribute towards the purchase of the first electric trucks to be deployed as part of TR Group‘s nationwide, 1300-strong, heavy commercial vehicle rental fleet.

EECA will co-fund TR Group to buy three electric 4×2 curtainside trucks with tail lifts and an 11 tonne GVM, aimed at the local pick-up and delivery market. In conjunction with EECA‘s support, TR Group aims to increase the uptake of electric trucks in New Zealand by providing transport operators easy and risk-free access to trial and learn about this technology. In turn, TR Group can focus on providing competitive, economical access to electric vehicles while working to understand the long-term economic viability for heavy commercial electric trucks in New Zealand. The funding will also help TR Group while they work on developing preventative maintenance programmes and servicing schedules for these vehicles.

“I believe we have a very strong position in the transport industry, one that we have worked hard on over many years in conjunction with the loyal support of our many customers,” says TR Group‘s general manager, Brendan King.

“Because of this position we believe we have a responsibility to show leadership and help the industry evolve with this type of technology. This means taking risks on their behalf and doing the learning about electric trucks – how they work, what are the pitfalls, what are the advantages, and how to make the most of them. This is what we intend to do.”

TR Group managing director Andrew Carpenter said he was thankful to EECA for their support.

“This trial would not be possible without the support of EECA and the Low Emission Vehicles Contestable Fund. We are incredibly excited about the potential positive impact that electric trucks can have in the heavy commercial vehicle sector and look forward to working with our customers to prove their long-term economic viability and of course their positive impact on our environment.”