UK container haulier Port Express has launched a trial of a 42-tonne electric HGV at its Southampton operation, deploying the vehicle on container movements between its depot and the Port of Southampton. The truck, which produces zero tailpipe emissions, is charged using two on-site charging units with a combined capacity of 360 kWh.
The vehicle is already operating in daily service, allowing the company to assess performance in a busy port environment where short-haul, high-frequency movements are common. According to Port Express, the focus of the trial is on understanding range, charging requirements and operational reliability under real working conditions rather than in a controlled test setting.
The trial is being carried out in collaboration with DP World as part of its Electric Vehicle Transition & Introduction Accelerator (EVITA) programme. EVITA is designed to support container transport operators in testing electric trucks and to gather practical data on infrastructure needs and operational viability. The programme is delivered in partnership with the Centre for Sustainable Road Freight through its JOLT research initiative.
While electric HGVs are increasingly seen as a necessary component of the UK’s decarbonisation strategy for road freight, the Port Express trial also reflects the current limitations of the market. Vehicle availability, charging capacity, and grid connections remain key constraints, meaning most early deployments rely heavily on depot-based charging rather than public infrastructure.
At the same time, new charging capacity specifically designed for heavy goods vehicles is still largely in the pipeline. A new electric HGV charging hub is due to open in September 2026 at Magna Park in Lutterworth, one of the UK’s largest logistics locations.
The facility will be built, owned and operated by Guardian Smart Infrastructure Management in partnership with Keoma Hubs. The first phase of the project will include 32 MCS-ready chargers, each capable of delivering up to 400 kW, and will serve 179 HGV bays designed for articulated vehicles using a pull-in layout.
According to the developers, the site will be TAPA 2-certified, meeting specific standards for physical security, access control and staff training. It will also incorporate a digital booking and access system provided by Bosch Road Services, alongside automated hospitality services from BK World.
Magna Park Lutterworth, managed by Marq Logistics, offers more than 13 million square feet of warehouse space and is home to a wide range of logistics and distribution operators. The addition of dedicated HGV charging infrastructure is intended to support tenants planning a transition to electric freight vehicles.
