Mercedes-Benz Trucks has become the first manufacturer to drive an electric HGV from John o’ Groats to Land’s End, completing the 1,378km (854-mile) journey in just over 24 hours using its new eActros 600.
The 39.5-tonne truck made only three charging stops – at Stirling, Sandbach and Exeter – highlighting both the long-distance capability of the eActros 600 and the growing viability of fully electric long-haul transport. The truck achieved an average efficiency of 1.175km/kWh and recorded a maximum single-charge range of 510km.
Powered exclusively by renewable electricity, the run saved 1,042kg of CO₂ compared with an equivalent diesel journey. Mercedes-Benz Trucks used the event to promote Globe Truckers UK, a charity supporting drivers affected by injury and mental health challenges.
Driver Ali Colquhoun said the eActros 600 delivered steady power and smooth handling throughout the trip, while Daimler Truck UK’s PR and communications manager Nick Ford described the run as proof that zero-tailpipe-emission long-haul transport “is happening now”. Globe Truckers UK CEO Andy Tustian thanked the manufacturer for raising national awareness of the charity.
Source: Motor Transport