Learn More About Us
The primary objectives of Project JOLT are to:
Decarbonize the Logistics Sector by Transitioning to Electric HGVs
The project aims to reduce carbon emissions in logistics by shifting from diesel-powered to electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs). This transition addresses the environmental impact of freight transportation contributing to climate change.
Provide Data-Driven Insights to Support the Adoption of Electric Fleets
Leveraging data-driven insights to facilitate electric fleet adoption. By analysing vehicle performance, efficiency, and costs, the project offers valuable guidance to logistics operators, helping them transition smoothly to eHGVs.
Conduct Real-World Trials to Evaluate the Performance of eHGVs
JOLT will conduct real-world trials to assess eHGV performance and efficiency. These trials will gather critical data on battery life, charging infrastructure, and operational costs, providing feedback for improvements and broader adoption.
Develop Scalable Solutions for the Broader Logistics Industry
We aim to create scalable solutions for the logistics industry. Insights from the project will be used to develop best practices applicable to various logistics operations, ensuring the transition to electric fleets is accessible to all.
Our Leaders
A strong team with years of experience
Prof. David Cebon
Director, The Centre for Sustainable Road Freight
A Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Cambridge University, David is the visionary behind Project JOLT. With decades of expertise in engineering and sustainability, he is dedicated to reducing carbon emissions from road freight.
Prof. Philip Greening
Co-Director, The Centre for Sustainable Road Freight
An expert in sustainable transport and logistics at Heriot-Watt University, Philip focuses on understanding the operational impacts of electric heavy goods vehicles and enhancing supply chain efficiency through advanced data analysis.
Michael Ayres
Managing Director, Flexible Power Systems
Michael spearheads the development of advanced fleet management software, optimizing the integration and operation of electric vehicles. His expertise in big data and automated management is crucial for reducing the risks and costs of transitioning to electric freight.
Justin Laney
General Manager of Central Transport at the John Lewis Partnership
Overseeing a fleet of approximately 5,500 vehicles. With over 14 years in this role, he has been instrumental in driving the company’s sustainability initiatives, aiming to eliminate fossil fuel use by 2030 and achieve a zero-carbon fleet by 2035.
Simon Flint
Consultant
Simon heads up communications and marketing. He has extensive experience in collaborative working and innovation on major infrastructure projects. He is committed to finding pathways to net zero.
Mission
To lead the transition to a sustainable logistics sector by electrifying heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) across the UK. Through collaboration, innovation, and data-driven insights, we aim to reduce carbon emissions, enhance operational efficiency, and support businesses in achieving their Net Zero goals.
Vision
To create a future where the logistics industry operates with zero emissions, leveraging advanced technology and strategic partnerships to ensure environmental sustainability, economic viability, and social responsibility. Our vision is to set a global standard for the decarbonization of road freight, fostering a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable world for generations to come.
“We’re excited to participate in the JOLT initiative as part of our net zero strategy and longstanding reputation for environmental innovation. Joint trials of Battery Electric Vehicles offer a unique opportunity to share our data and operational experience with other transport providers, creating a larger pool of collective knowledge. Ultimately, we’re looking to gather real-world operating data that will help us understand how these zero emission vehicles can integrate into our logistics, supporting our efforts to transition to a more sustainable, net zero future.
As part of our ongoing programme to mitigate our impact on the climate, we have set ambitious targets to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2045. Our carbon reduction strategy, outlined in 2023, encompasses three core themes: switching from fossil fuels to renewable biofuels, maximising the use of renewable energy, and accelerating the uptake of zero-emission vehicles. This project will therefore enable us to delivery on our strategy and demonstrate we are actively working towards a sustainable future.”
Anna Rickard – Environmental Consultant, Howard Tenens Logistics Ltd
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is electrifying HGVs important?
Electrifying HGVs is crucial for reducing carbon emissions from the logistics sector. HGVs account for 20% of CO2 emissions from domestic transport. Transitioning to electric HGVs can significantly lower these emissions, equivalent to removing 13 million cars from the roads, thus contributing to environmental sustainability and public health.
How will Project JOLT benefit the logistics industry?
Project JOLT will provide valuable insights into the operational and economic impacts of electric HGVs, helping logistics companies make informed decisions. By optimizing fleet management and reducing emissions, the project supports the industry’s transition to more sustainable practices, improving efficiency and reducing costs.
What role does data play in Project JOLT?
Data is central to Project JOLT, as it enables the analysis of vehicle performance, operational efficiency, and costs. By leveraging data from real-world trials and advanced simulations, the project aims to develop effective strategies for the widespread adoption of electric HGVs.
How does Project JOLT address the challenges of electric HGV downtime for charging?
Project JOLT addresses charging downtime by using advanced data analytics and fleet management software to optimize charging schedules. This ensures that vehicles are charged efficiently and downtime is minimized, maintaining high operational efficiency.
Can small and medium-sized logistics companies benefit from Project JOLT?
Yes, Project JOLT is designed to benefit logistics companies of all sizes. The insights and solutions developed through the project are applicable to both large and small operators, helping them transition to electric fleets and improve their environmental impact.
What kind of data is collected and analysed?
Project JOLT collects and analyses a wide range of data, including vehicle and charger performance, operational efficiency, costs, and logistics data. This comprehensive data collection helps develop detailed insights into the feasibility and benefits of electric HGVs.
How does Project JOLT handle data privacy and security?
Project JOLT places a high priority on data privacy and security. All data collected is anonymized and handled in compliance with strict data protection regulations. The project partners use secure platforms to store and analyze data, ensuring that sensitive information is protected.
