Ausgrid has begun trialling its first electric prime mover as it explores how heavy electric freight vehicles can support essential electricity network operations across New South Wales.
The trial involves a Volvo FH Aero Electric prime mover operating across Ausgrid’s electricity distribution network, hauling loads of more than 30 tonnes on regular freight routes from the Upper Hunter to Southern Sydney.
Early results from the trial show the electric truck is performing comparably to diesel vehicles in day-to-day operations, with Ausgrid reporting no reduction in productivity during the trial period.
Speaking at the official launch event in Somersby on Friday 15 May, Nigel Lowry, Group Executive Property, Logistics & Governance at Ausgrid, said the trial was an important step in the organisation’s fleet electrification journey.
“This is an important milestone in our fleet electrification journey,” Mr Lowry said.
“Our prime mover trucks play a critical role in getting equipment to our crews across the network, so it’s important that any new technology can do the job reliably.”
“So far, what we’ve seen is encouraging. The truck has been able to carry significant loads and operate productively alongside our existing fleet.”
The trial is also testing a new approach to heavy vehicle charging. Ausgrid has partnered with Australian start-up HubZero Energy to deploy a charging solution that combines a standard grid connection with integrated battery storage.
The system is designed to reduce the need for more complex grid upgrades and civil works, helping fleets deploy charging infrastructure faster and at lower cost.
Mahan Perera, CEO and Co-founder of HubZero Energy, said heavy vehicle electrification can be slowed by the time and cost involved in installing suitable charging infrastructure.
“Some of the challenges with heavy vehicle electrification include the time and cost it can take to install charging infrastructure,” Mr Perera said.
“This trial is demonstrating a different approach – using rapid deployment, battery-assisted fast charging to avoid the need for grid upgrades and digging up the ground – simplifying the process and getting infrastructure in place more quickly and cost-effectively.”
Driver feedback has also been positive, with drivers noting the quieter, smoother and more comfortable experience compared with diesel trucks. Ausgrid said the lower noise profile could also benefit customers and communities, particularly in urban areas and during early or late deliveries.
For Fleet Managers, the trial highlights one of the key questions facing heavy vehicle electrification: whether electric trucks can meet operational requirements without reducing productivity. In Ausgrid’s case, the prime mover is being tested in real freight operations rather than a controlled demonstration, giving the business a clearer view of performance, charging needs and driver acceptance.
Ausgrid said the trial will help inform future fleet replacement decisions as vehicle range and charging capability continue to improve.
The organisation has already electrified more than 150 of its passenger vehicles and is now shifting its focus to trucks, vans and utilities as part of a broader fleet electrification strategy.
