About the Project

This project provides a proof of concept for a data-driven assessment of critical locations for charging and refuelling infrastructure for zero-emission Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) across Scotland. The project employed advanced analytics on real-world data from fleet operators' Scottish activities, utilising an in-house modelling and simulation suite developed by the Centre for Sustainable Road Freight (CSRF) at Heriot-Watt University.

This report was commissioned and funded by Transport Scotland to fulfil a commitment within the HGV Decarbonisation Pathway for Scotland. It was delivered by the Centre for Sustainable Road Freight (CSRF). This is a summary report of a larger technical report that will be available on Heriot-Watt University’s Centre for Logistics and Sustainability (CLS) website.

Transport Scotland

Transport Scotland is the national transport agency of Scotland, responsible for delivering the Scottish Government's vision for transport.

Centre for Sustainable Road Freight (CSRF)

The Centre for Sustainable Road Freight (CSRF) is a leading research centre with expertise in modelling and policy development for decarbonising freight transportation. The CSRF is a collaboration between Heriot-Watt University, Cambridge University, and Westminster University.

Aim

The project's aim is to aid government and other relevant stakeholders to facilitate a smooth transition to zero-emission freight fleets by offering an evidence-based analysis of the most likely critical en route, shared-use charging and hydrogen refuelling infrastructure needs across Scotland to support freight operations.

Scope

The scope of the project was freight transportation by Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) within Scotland, for journeys ranging from the relatively short (2-4 hours) to more than 8 hours, including tramping operations.

Outcomes

1. Suggest where shared en route charging or refuelling facilities should be developed to allow efficient operation of battery electric (BEV) and hydrogen fuel cell electric (FCEV) HGVs. Provide an estimation of the demand at each corresponding location.
2. Provide recommendations on which locations should be prioritised and phased based on utilisation.

In addition, the project provides a proof of concept for evidence-based identification of critical locations for shared en route charging and refuelling infrastructure for BEVs and FCEVs.