Logistics UK has called for faster progress on low-carbon plans to support business investment in the sector.
The industry body said it welcomed today’s announcement of decarbonisation and energy security strategy, including the ZEV mandate, charge point funding and plans to drive charging standards. But it expressed disappointment at the continued lack of a plan for a green transition for larger logistics vehicles.
Kate Jennings, director of policy, said: “The UK has the opportunity to be a leader in green innovation and investment, and this plan is a step in the right direction for parts of the UK’s logistics network. However, it remains vital that the Government provides a delivery roadmap for commercial electric vehicle infrastructure, low carbon fuels (LCFs) and rail electrification, so businesses can invest in confidence.
“For operators electrifying their fleet, the capital expenditure required for depot charging can be extortionately high, with some operators who are currently in the process of electrifying their van fleets reporting costs of over £1m – which is often not commercially viable, especially if premises are leased. The UK therefore needs a roadmap for electric logistics vehicles that includes a fair approach to funding electricity connections for depot charging. Public charge points must ensure sufficient space for logistics vehicles and fast charging points to enable operators to maximise the efficiency of fleets.”
The industry body also reiterated its view that there is much slower progress for large parts of the logistics system where electric is not a viable option. While the drive for domestic production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and low carbon hydrogen is positive, it says progress needs to be made on LCFs, rail electrification and vehicle technology trials if industry is to have the clarity it needs to confidently invest in the green transition, now.
Amongst today’s announcements, the Department for Transport confirmed that e-fuels were “not a solution for normal cars and vans”, but potentially left the door open for specialist applications – something that Logistics UK has already called for. FleetCheck has also said that e-fuels might have a role to play in fleet applications where electric vehicles might remain impractical for the time being.
Logistics UK’s Kate Jennings continued: “While new technologies are being developed, LCFs provide a viable option for reducing carbon emissions by up to 80% with immediate effect, without significant vehicle modifications needed. This is especially important given today’s vehicles will remain in use for years to come. Logistics UK is calling for a LCF strategy for all logistics transport modes, backed by infrastructure, innovation funding and tax incentives. It is essential that government provides businesses with a clear regulatory framework that enables confidence to invest; a call that is supported by the Transport Committee.”
