Ausgrid takes freight forward with electric prime mover and fast-to-deploy charger
The trial involves a Volvo FH Aero Electric prime mover operating across Ausgrid’s electricity distribution network, hauling loads of more than 30 tonnes on routes stretching from the Upper Hunter to Southern Sydney, as part of regular freight movements.
Early results show the vehicle is performing comparably to its diesel counterparts in day-to-day operations, with no reduction in productivity observed during the trial period.
Ausgrid Group Executive Property, Logistics & Governance Nigel Lowry said the trial is an important step in understanding how electric heavy vehicles can support essential services.
"This is an important milestone in our fleet electrification journey."
“Our prime mover trucks play a critical role in getting equipment to our crews across the network, so it’s important that any new technology can do the job reliably.” Mr Lowry said.
“So far, what we’ve seen is encouraging. The truck has been able to carry significant loads and operate productively alongside our existing fleet.”
Alongside the vehicle, Ausgrid has partnered with Aussie start-up HubZero Energy to test a new heavy vehicle charging solution, combining a standard grid connection with integrated battery storage.
CEO and Co-founder of Hub Zero Mahan Perera said the set-up is designed to avoid more complex upgrades and was installed in a matter of hours, helping get the trial up and running quickly.
“Some of the challenges with heavy vehicle electrification include the time and cost it can take to install charging infrastructure,” Mr Perera said. “This trial is demonstrating a different approach."
"Using rapid deployment, battery-assisted fast charging to avoid the need for grid upgrades and digging up the ground – simplifying the process and getting infrastructure in place more quickly and cost-effectively.”
Climate Change Authority Chair Matt Kean said the electrification of Australia's transport sector will curb what has been the fastest growing source of carbon emissions in the economy and improve energy security at the same time.
“We all know our economy must wean itself off fossil fuels – and that will require investments in infrastructure like the provision of fast-chargers when it comes to trucks,” Mr Kean said.
“This project has demonstrated that entrepreneurs can help quicken the transition by showing how batteries added to chargers can unlock faster and cheaper solutions that don’t require large network upgrades.”
Feedback from drivers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many noting the quieter, smoother and more comfortable driving experience compared to traditional diesel trucks.
The lower noise profile also has flow-on benefits for customers and communities, particularly in urban areas and during early or late deliveries.
Ausgrid says the trial will help inform future decisions about fleet replacement as technology continues to evolve, including improvements in vehicle range and charging capability.
An early adopter, Ausgrid has electrified more than 150 of its fleet passenger vehicles, with the focus now shifting to trucks, vans and utilities as part of a broader fleet electrification strategy.