The trial involving battery-electric trucks operating in the forestry sector is proving successful, according to its project leaders.
Transport News and freelancer David Craik have followed the Net Zero Timhaul (NZTH) Project over the past three years. The initiative is supported by Scottish Forestry and delivered by Creel Maritime Ltd.
The project’s remit is to accelerate decarbonisation across Scotland’s timber transport sector and build confidence in battery-electric heavy goods vehicles (HGVs).
Since 2023, two vehicles have been operating in demanding forestry environments: a Volvo FM 40-tonne electric tractor unit running for James Jones and Sons Ltd, and a Volvo FM 44-tonne drawbar rigid operated by Scotlog.
Over the last two years, the trucks have covered 132,309km and avoided 165 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, while demonstrating strong reliability, efficiency and driver acceptance. Drivers report particularly high levels of satisfaction, citing reduced noise and vibration, which improve the working environment.
Manoeuvrability has also been described as noticeably smoother.
Results show that electric HGVs can significantly reduce emissions in typical forestry duty cycles, particularly in regional-to-base operations.
In a statement, Creel Maritime acknowledged that challenges remain, including vehicle range, charging infrastructure, capital costs and grid capacity. However, it said ongoing projects such as this trial are increasing market confidence as vehicle technology, charging networks and grant support continue to mature.
There are plans to extend the NZTH project beyond summer 2026 to test emerging truck models and remote charging technologies.
The company added: “Using a zero-tailpipe-emission eHGV in rural Scotland is proving that decarbonisation of the HGV sector is possible, even in challenging conditions. The NZTH project provides clear evidence that electric timber haulage is almost viable today, with the potential to become a mainstream solution supporting Scotland’s Net Zero ambitions.”
Around seven million tonnes of wood are harvested from Scotland’s forests each year and transported to sawmills, board manufacturers and other processors using 44-tonne diesel-powered HGVs.
