M180 in North Lincolnshire could become test site for electric lorries
Its part of ÂŁ20m government plans to cut pollution on our roads
Last updated 27th Jul 2021
A stretch of the M180 near Scunthorpe could be turned into a test site for electric lorries, under new plans from the government to cut pollution on our roads.
Ministers have announced ÂŁ20m for the low emission freight project, which will be split between several different parts of the country.
The 'Electric Road System' study, led by construction and engineering company Costain LTD, will use a 20km stretch of the M180 to supply electric trucks with battery power via overhead cables.
The final site for the project hasn't yet been chosen, although it could link Immingham Port with warehouses around Doncaster.
The study will attempt to demonstrate that the tech works and can be used by businesses on an everyday basis.
There are also proposals for future trails involving battery powered trucks which will have a 100km range.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said:
“Through our bold and ambitious Transport Decarbonisation Plan, we’re leading the way in the transition to zero emission vehicles by becoming the first country in the world to commit to ending the sale of all new fossil-fuelled road vehicles by 2040.
“From Doncaster to Scotland, by working in partnership with industry this funding will allow us to better understand the role of zero-emission HGVs, whilst levelling up the industry and boosting regional economies.”