Vehicle charging business, Gridserve has started constructing its first public electric HGV charging hubs. These are part of the Electric Freightway – a nationwide programme designed to give fleet operators access to high-power public charging designed specifically for electric Heavy Goods Vehicles (eHGVs).
With the first hubs underway at Extra Baldock (J10, A1(M)) and Moto Exeter (J30, M5), the Uk is finally starting to develop a network to serve the electric trucks of the future.
Electric HGV charging
Heavy goods vehicles make up only 5% of those on the road but account for nearly 20% of transport emissions in the UK. Until now, one of the biggest barriers to electrification in this space has been the lack of suitable public charging infrastructure.
By designing hubs specifically for electric HGVs, Gridserve aiming to help transport operators to move away from diesel and towards a zero-emission future.
Electric Freightway Hub Specification
The new hubs are being built with the needs of freight operators in mind. Each site will include:
- Four to eight ultra-rapid charging bays capable of delivering high power to large battery vehicles
- Drive-through design for articulated lorries and trailers, eliminating the need for reversing or awkward positioning
- Swept-path and manoeuvrability planning to ensure safe, efficient access for HGVs
- Wider bays and clear signage to suit commercial vehicle layouts
- Secure facilities, including lighting, sensors, walkways and CCTV
By focusing on accessibility and safety, these sites will support efficient EV charging for electric lorries without disrupting fleet schedules.
Where to find electric HGV charging hubs in the UK
The first two Electric Freightway hubs are being built at:
- Extra Baldock: Just off the A1(M), Junction 10.
- Moto Exeter: Located on the M5 at Junction 30.
More sites are in planning stages, with five additional public charging hubs for HGVs expected to be opened in the coming months.
Government-backed infrastructure for fleet electrification
The Electric Freightway is being delivered as part of the UK Government’s Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) programme.
Gridserve was selected for the project based on its strong delivery track record, including its Electric Forecourts and Electric Highway network.
Designed for Drivers
These new hubs aren’t just built for trucks; they’re also designed with driver experience and safety in mind:
- Drive-through access reduces risk and stress for HGV drivers
- Elevated screens and connectors suit taller driving positions
- Wide, marked walkways support safe exit and re-entry
- Lighting, CCTV, and signage improve site visibility 24/7
Why this is a turning point for UK logistics
The Electric Freightway is the first major UK initiative to provide dedicated, public EV charging for commercial freight vehicles. Unlike standard EV chargers, these hubs are:
- Tailored to heavy vehicles
- Located at strategic motorway junctions
- Built for high throughput and minimal downtime