Siemens and Kuehne+Nagel Pilot eHGVs to Cut UK Logistics

Siemens has initiated a partnership with its logistics provider Kuehne+Nagel to introduce electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs) into its supply chain.

The project will see the battery-powered lorries serve Siemens's factory in Congleton, Cheshire, replacing the diesel trucks currently in use. This move is part of a wider strategy to test the feasibility of electrifying industrial logistics.

The new fleet is set to operate on a “milk run” model. This involves a single vehicle making collections or deliveries at multiple locations along a predefined route, optimising efficiency. The eHGVs selected for the pilot have a stated range of 400km and are capable of transporting loads up to 44 tonnes.

Should the initial deployment prove successful, Siemens and Kuehne+Nagel intend to explore replicating the model across other facilities and networks within the UK.

Gauging real-world viability and emissions reduction

Siemens anticipates that each electric lorry route will help eliminate approximately 12 tonnes of CO₂e emissions annually. The pilot will function as a proving ground for the technology within Siemens' operations, assessing whether electrification can be integrated into industrial logistics without affecting delivery schedules or overall operational performance.

Rob Matthews, Managing Director of Siemens Congleton, views the initiative as more than a simple vehicle replacement.

"This partnership represents a meaningful change in how we approach logistics and sustainability," he says.

He adds: "By introducing electric heavy goods vehicles into our operations at Congleton, we are not only reducing emissions but also rethinking how we deliver efficiency and resilience across our supply chain."

Rob notes that a key measure of success will be the ability to balance sustainability goals with the high operational standards expected by its teams and customers.

"This is a clear example of how collaboration and technology can accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy while continuing to support the industries and communities we serve," he explains.

A new approach to electrifying logistics

The project is seen by its participants as part of a necessary industry-wide evolution.

Rob Palmer, Commercial Director at Kuehne+Nagel, suggests that the transition requires early adopters willing to test and validate new models.

"We're proud to partner with Siemens in accelerating the move to low-emission transport across their operations," Rob explains.

He adds: "It's inspiring to see industry leaders like Siemens championing the adoption of electric trucks - setting a powerful example for how the UK can scale low-emission logistics."

The deployment is supported by the long-term relationship between Siemens and Kuehne+Nagel, which provides a foundation of operational knowledge for navigating the introduction of new technology.

Congleton factory's established sustainability framework

The Siemens factory in Congleton has a background in environmental initiatives. The site, which specialises in low-voltage variable speed drives and power electronics, produces controls and drives that increasingly feature the EcoTech environmental product performance label.

This label indicates the use of sustainable materials and adherence to circular design principles.

Furthermore, the facility benefits from its own renewable energy source. The Havannah Weir Hydro Scheme, a project developed with Dane Valley Community Energy, generates 75kW of renewable electricity.

This power is sourced from the River Dane and transmitted directly to the Congleton site through a kilometre-long underground cable. The eHGV deployment aligns with Siemens' broader DEGREE Framework, which integrates sustainability into all aspects of product and process development.

While the 400km range of the pilot vehicles is suitable for the regional distribution networks serving Congleton, scaling up for longer-haul routes presents further challenges. The availability of charging infrastructure across the country remains inconsistent and the payload-to-range calculations that favour diesel for certain applications continue to be a factor.

The projected 12-tonne annual CO₂e reduction from a single route may appear modest, but if the concept is proven, its multiplication across numerous routes and sites could deliver substantial emissions cuts for Siemens's logistics footprint.