SMMT statement on zero emission truck demonstrator programme funding

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Truck manufacturers are committed to decarbonisation, but success will depend not just on manufacturer investment and innovation, but on governments having a strategy that encourages operators to switch and infrastructure providers to invest.

"The announcement of a government truck trial for long haul freight transport is a great opportunity to ensure Britain develops that strategy, one that puts the right chargers and refuelling facilities in the right places.

"Manufacturers are bringing an ever-increasing choice of zero emission heavy goods vehicles to market but the variety of jobs HGVs perform for society such as goods delivery, emergency services and refuse collection, all have differing energy needs and hence differing potential technological solutions.

"A flexible approach to future technology is therefore essential but it should have, at its heart, a collaborative approach between industry, government and other stakeholders.”