The Victorian government on Wednesday launched its Victorian Electric Heavy Vehicle Trial, which provides freight operators the opportunity to trial electric heavy vehicles in real-world operations at no cost – apart from charging the batteries.
The $1.5 million Victorian Electric Heavy Vehicle Trial (VEHVT) is being run by the Victorian Transport Association (VTA) in partnership with the Victorian government and local industry partners and is designed to generate practical insights and information to support the transition to zero-emission freight.
The trial will provide freight operators the opportunity to evaluate not only the electric trucks they would be using, but also the charging infrastructure, driver training, and vehicle maintenance necessary to operate an electric fleet.
The program is being delivered at no cost to the freight companies, although they will have to manage the operating costs of EV charging and driver training.
The program was launched this week at Daimler Trucks Laverton, where state minister for ports and freight Melissa Horne announced that local logistics company Cahill Transport would be the first participant in the VEHVT.
Cahill Transport is already operating a Mercedes Benz eActros evaluation vehicle. According to Daimler Truck Australia Pacific, the eActros is also making a positive impression “with its practicality and ease of use” and Cahill Transport is “sending the eActros further each day with no issues” with the drivers reportedly “loving” it.
“We applaud the VTA’s vision to make this trial happen and help more customers experience these electric workhorses,” said Andrew Assimo, vice president responsible for sales, marketing, and operations at Daimler Truck Australia Pacific.
“They will be able to experience practical sustainability with the best electric trucks you can buy.”
