Leyland Trucks to launch first ‘zero emission’ electric truck

Leyland Trucks is begin production of a new ‘zero emission’ vehicle in May, the first of its kind to be built in the UK.

The 19-tonne DAF LF Electric is powered by LFP (Lithium Ferro Phosphate) batteries, providing up to 175 miles in one charge.

The batteries can be charged from 20 per cent to 80 per cent within one hour using dedicated fast charge equipment or within 6.5 hours using the regular electricity network, meaning drivers could charge their vehicle at home overnight.

The vehicle’s energy supply can power auxiliary equipment such as an electric cooling installation or an electro-hydraulic crane. This eliminates the need for a separate generator and will result in a full ‘zero emission’ distribution truck.

Brennan Gourdie, managing director at Leyland Trucks, said: "This new technology will reduce commercial carbon footprints on a big scale. At Leyland Trucks, we have been committed to environmental responsibility for decades, working constantly to improve the product technology we create and our manufacturing techniques.

"This latest step represents a leap forward and our world-class engineers, many of whom were born and raised on our doorstep in Leyland, are proud to be among those leading the charge for environmental progress and industry-leading innovation."

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