Nationwide Initiative Paves the Way for Highway Truck Charging

As battery-electric trucks continue to make strides in the market, the HoLa project seeks to address the critical need for a robust charging infrastructure that can support the specific demands of long-haul trucking. Through the deployment of eight Megawatt Charging Systems (MCS) and an additional ten Combined Charging Standard (CCS) charging points across five strategic locations, the project underscores a comprehensive approach to integrating real-world logistics operations with cutting-edge charging solutions.

Drawing on insights garnered from the initial phase of the project, which spanned from September 2021 to December 2023, the consortium has laid out a detailed blueprint for the construction and planning of CCS and MCS charging points. A pivotal aspect of this blueprint is the proposal for a standard layout of highway truck charging stations, meticulously designed to accommodate the nuances of electric truck charging while optimizing space efficiency and user experience.

The proposed layout showcases a large charging facility equipped with more than six charging points, featuring both MCS for rapid charging and CCS for overnight charging. A distinctive attribute of this layout is the inclusion of drive-through charging options, enabling trucks to seamlessly charge without detaching trailers, thereby enhancing operational efficiency. Additionally, the design incorporates a separate, larger waiting area for electric trucks, ensuring minimal disruption to the flow of traffic and maximising space utilisation.

This forward-thinking design also prioritises clear and intuitive signage to guide drivers to the appropriate charging points, addressing a common challenge faced in the adoption of electric vehicles in the logistics sector. The strategic placement of MCS charging sockets on the left-hand side of the vehicle, as per industry agreement, alongside adaptable CCS sockets, demonstrates a meticulous attention to detail aimed at streamlining the charging process.

As the HoLa project progresses, the real-world application of these charging stations will undergo rigorous monitoring and analysis, providing valuable data to refine and enhance the proposed layout. This initiative not only marks a significant step towards the decarbonisation of the logistics industry but also serves as a model for the global advancement of electric vehicle infrastructure, heralding a new era of sustainable long-haul trucking.

Source: Fraunhofer ISI