A major milestone for zero-emission freight has arrived. The UK’s first public, turn-up-and-charge electric HGV hubs are now live, marking a step toward decarbonising long-distance haulage.
Delivered by GRIDSERVE through the ZEHID-funded Electric Freightway programme, the first motorway-based eHGV charging hubs have opened at Extra Baldock (A1(M) J10) and Moto Exeter (M5 J30). Together, they lay the foundations for a national, shared charging network designed specifically for heavy goods vehicles.
To prove the point, an electric HGV has already completed the 200-mile journey between Exeter and Baldock, charging exclusively using the new public infrastructure. Zero emissions. Real routes. Real mileage.
Heavy goods vehicles may account for just 1% of road vehicles, but they generate 16% of UK domestic transport emissions. Tackling freight is essential and the Electric Freightway shows what’s possible when infrastructure, vehicles and policy move in step.
Each new hub has been built with eHGV operations front of mind. Drive-through bays, high-power chargers, clear safety markings and layouts designed for large vehicles ensure seamless access regardless of charge-port location. Extra Baldock opens with six dedicated eHGV bays, while Moto Exeter launches with four, all supported by lighting, CCTV and safe pedestrian access to services.
The Electric Freightway consortium,bringing together hauliers, OEMs and logistics leaders,has played a key role in shaping hubs that work in the real world, accounting for manoeuvrability, dwell times and route planning. That collaboration is already paying off.
These first hubs are just the beginning. Five further sites,including Tamworth, Thurrock, Leeds, Chester and Strensham North,are set to open later this year, accelerating the shift to electric freight at scale.
For the freight sector, the message is clear: electric HGVs are no longer a future concept. With the right infrastructure in place, zero-emission haulage is ready to deliver,on Britain’s roads, right now.
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