The Renault Trucks E-Tech T departed from Kuehne+Nagel’s logistics centre in Derbyshire, UK, and travelled to Amiens in northern France. After unloading, reloading, and recharging its batteries, the truck returned to its starting point. The round trip covered approximately 1,100 kilometres. A key highlight was the crossing of the English Channel aboard the P&O Liberté hybrid ferry, which the operator claims emits up to 40% less CO₂ than conventional vessels.
The successful run demonstrates that electric trucks can be used effectively in international transport, according to Kuehne+Nagel.
At the same time, the test confirms that ferries provide a safe and legally compliant way to transport electric vehicles on one of the busiest routes between the UK and continental Europe.
According to Kuehne+Nagel, no electric truck has previously completed a ferry crossing with a load on this route. The trial comes amid ongoing debate about the safety of electric vehicles in maritime transport, following fires aboard the Fremantle Highway and Morning Midas, both of which were carrying electric vehicles.
Despite the controversy, the project partners agree: the test proves that the Dover–Calais route has the potential to become a low-emission freight corridor of the future.
