The DAF XD Electric and DAF XF Electric will participate in a British programme to demonstrate zero-emission transport solutions for long distance operations using battery electric trucks.

The Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator programme is funded by the UK Government and executed in partnership with Innovate UK and will run for five years.

The programme aims to both kick-start fully electric long haul transport as well as initiate the roll-out of a public charging infrastructure for trucks.

The DAF XD and XF Electric tractor units will enter operation with major operatorsincluding Maritime Transport, Marks & Spencer, Menzies, Royal Mail and Eddie Stobart.

“The Government’s funding represents a significant opportunity to demonstrate and encourage the deployment of battery electric trucks in longer distance operations and at higher weights,” said managing director at DAF Trucks UK, David Kiss.

“Our New Generation DAF XD Electric and XF Electric models are the ideal choice for fleets, with operational capabilities up to the maximum 42-tonne GCW allowed for zero emission five-axle combinations in the UK,” he said.

“They also offer an up to 500km single charge range, and with 325kW fast charging, even a 1000km per day operation is possible.”

The programme follows the conclusion of the recent Battery Electric Truck Trial, where 20 DAF LF Electric urban distribution vehicles were operated by public bodies including the National Health Service and Local Authorities.