Holcim, along with partners CHL and Janus Electric, has achieved an Australian first – the first zero-emissions heavy vehicle delivering raw materials.

The successful trial began in November 2022 in Queensland, leveraging the Janus Electric converted prime mover, carting sand and aggregates from Holcim’s plants across Brisbane and Southeast Queensland.

The trial tested the economic viability, reliability, and performance of the vehicle.

CHL’s General Manager – Operations, Jordan Barratt, said that there was a clear pathway to commercialisation of the technology in heavy haulage applications.

“We have been operating the Janus Electric truck in short-haul, back-to-base scenarios and found that it can meet our operational requirements“ he said.

“Our goal is to deploy ten trucks in Southeast Queensland by early 2024, which will be the largest fleet of its kind in Australia.

“With support from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, Queensland Transport and Main Roads, and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency, we believe this is very achievable.”

While the trial has exceeded expectations, Janus Electric CEO, Lex Forsyth said that there is more to be done to enable greater adoption of this technology in Australia.

“Despite this ground-breaking achievement, the lack of government support to adopt this technology is concerning and highlights the need for greater investment and incentives to accelerate the transition to sustainable transport,” he said.

“The trial proved the viability of this cutting-edge Australian-designed and manufactured technology. We look forward to the government engaging with Janus Electric and like companies to accelerate the clean energy transition.”