The transition to zero‑emission heavy goods transport has taken a major step forward, as the first electric HGV (eHGV) successfully completed a journey through the Channel Tunnel. The milestone marks a significant achievement for the UK Government-funded eFreight 2030 project, part of the Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) programme, and showcases just how quickly electric long-haul capability is advancing.
A collaborative breakthrough for cross-border electric freight
The historic trip was made possible thanks to the combined efforts of Kuehne+Nagel, Voltempo, and DAF Trucks, working alongside LeShuttle Freight. Their collaboration demonstrates how operators, manufacturers, and charging specialists can work together to accelerate real-world adoption of electric HGVs.
The Channel Tunnel, managed by Eurotunnel, is one of Europe’s most vital trade corridors. It carries more than a million trucks annually and accounts for around a quarter of the total value of goods traded between the UK and mainland Europe.
Kate Broome, Sustainability and Social Impact Director at Kuehne+Nagel UK, highlighted the significance of the achievement:
“With this first‑ever electric HGV journey via the Channel Tunnel, we set out to show what’s possible, and to inspire others to accelerate their own electrification journeys… This electric‑corridor milestone shows just how quickly the future of sustainable transport is taking shape.”
Her comments underline both the potential and the challenges of long-haul electric operations. Route planning and charging logistics remain complex, but rapid infrastructure development across Europe is already making long-distance eHGV journeys viable.
A 1,700 km round trip powered by megawatt charging
The journey began at Kuehne+Nagel’s East Midlands Gateway depot, where the DAF electric truck was loaded with 12 tonnes of freight and fully charged using a Voltempo HyperCharger.
This advanced charging hub is designed for heavy commercial vehicle needs, offering:
- Up to 1MW (1,000kW) of charging capacity
- Dynamic load-sharing across six vehicles
- Megawatt-level future-ready infrastructure
During the 1,700 km round trip to Kuehne+Nagel’s depot in Haiger, Germany, the vehicle topped up at public charging points, including:
- Gridserve (UK)
- Milence charging hubs in Dunkirk (France)
- Milence in Maasmechelen (Belgium)
This route demonstrated that long-haul eHGVs can already be supported by Europe’s rapidly expanding heavy vehicle charging network.
The DAF New Generation XF
The vehicle chosen for the mission was the Daf New Generation XF, recently named International Truck of the Year 2026. Designed with long-haul electric duty cycles in mind, it offers:
- Up to 500 km (310 miles) real-world range
- DC charging up to 325 kW
- Capability for daily routes of up to 1,000 km with strategic fast charging
This performance showcases how electric powertrains are becoming not just environmentally preferable, but increasingly practical for the demands of commercial logistics.
What this means for the future of HGV operations
This landmark journey isn’t just a technical demonstration, it’s a strong signal that large-scale decarbonisation of heavy transport is moving from concept to reality. As infrastructure grows and vehicle technology advances, electric HGVs are poised to become a mainstream option for fleet operators.
For UK businesses, this progress opens the door to:
- Lower operational emissions
- Reduced long‑term running costs
- Improved compliance with tightening environmental regulations
- A future-proofed fleet ready for the next decade of transport policy
Looking to explore HGV rental options? TCH Leasing can help!
At TCH Leasing, we support businesses as they navigate the evolving world of commercial transport. Whether you’re looking to trial new technologies, scale your fleet, or add additional capacity, our flexible HGV rental solutions can help you stay ahead.
Get in touch with TCH Leasing today to discuss your HGV rental needs and explore the options available for your fleet