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We are proud to announce the arrival of our first fully electric lorry. It marks another important step in our commitment to investing in more sustainable transport solutions.
The new DAF FA XD 220 battery electric vehicle is now operating from our Strood depot in Kent. It will be used by one of our own drivers to support plant deliveries and transport operations. While the vehicle is not part of our hire fleet, it represents an exciting development for our business.
As the UK’s largest specialist excavator plant hire company, we are always looking for ways to invest in modern equipment and new technology. The arrival of our first electric lorry reflects that approach and supports our wider sustainability goals.
Introducing Our New Electric Lorry
Supplied by Channel Commercials PLC, the DAF FA XD 220 combines commercial performance with battery electric technology. It has been designed to meet the demands of daily transport operations while helping reduce emissions.
The vehicle operates from our Strood depot and supports deliveries across the region. Built by Charlton Bodies, it provides the carrying capacity needed for transporting plant and equipment. The body measures 6.9 metres in length and includes a 4,834mm platform and a 1,858mm double cranked beaver section.
Overall, the vehicle measures approximately 9 metres long. This allows us to transport a wide range of machinery while maintaining the practicality required for plant transport.
To mark its arrival, we photographed the lorry carrying one of our SANY 6 metre electric telehandlers. It was a fitting combination. An electric lorry transporting electric plant highlights the direction we are taking as a business.
The First of Many
Although this is our first electric lorry, we do not expect it to be our last. The arrival of the DAF FA XD 220 marks the beginning of our planned investment in electric transport. As technology develops, we expect electric vehicles to play a larger role within our fleet.
The construction industry continues to evolve. More businesses are looking for practical ways to reduce emissions without compromising on performance. By introducing electric transport now, we are helping prepare for the future while maintaining the reliable service our customers expect.
We believe electric vehicles will become increasingly important within the plant hire sector. This investment allows us to gain valuable experience while supporting our long term sustainability objectives.
Performance and Practicality
Electric commercial vehicles have advanced significantly in recent years. They now offer businesses a realistic alternative to traditional diesel powered transport.
Our DAF FA XD 220 is an 18 tonne class vehicle. The electric version can be plated at up to 20 tonnes in the UK. This additional allowance helps compensate for the weight of the batteries and supports payload capacity.
The vehicle is fitted with three batteries and is expected to achieve around 180 miles on a single charge. The advised range is between 130 and 180 miles. Weather, payload, road conditions and driving style can all influence performance.
For a vehicle operating from a regional depot, this provides a practical solution for daily transport requirements. It also helps reduce emissions compared with conventional alternatives.
Supporting Our Electric Fleet with Ultra Rapid Charging
Investing in an electric lorry is only part of the process. Reliable charging infrastructure is equally important.
To support the new vehicle, we have installed a brand new Ultra Rapid CCS Charger at our Strood depot. This allows the lorry to be charged quickly and efficiently between jobs.
The DAF FA XD 220 supports DC fast charging of up to 150kW. It can also utilise 22kW AC charging through its onboard AC/DC converter. The vehicle uses a CCS2 charging connector positioned near the front mudguard on the driver’s side.
This investment helps maximise vehicle availability and reduce downtime. It also creates a strong foundation for future electric vehicle investment across our transport fleet.
Building on Our Commitment to Sustainability
The arrival of our first electric lorry forms part of a much wider sustainability strategy. We continue to invest in lower emission technologies across our operations.
With more than 3,500 items of plant available for hire through 11 UK depots, we are always looking for opportunities to improve efficiency. Sustainability remains an important consideration when making long term investment decisions.
Renewable energy already plays a key role across our business. Solar panels installed at our facilities help generate clean electricity and support day to day depot operations. These investments form part of our ongoing efforts to reduce environmental impact.
Our Growing Range of Electric Plant
Alongside our new electric lorry, we continue to expand the range of electric machinery available from our hire fleet.
This includes the SANY SY19E electric mini excavator, the SANY SY35E electric excavator and the SANY 6 metre electric telehandler. These machines provide customers with lower emission alternatives while still delivering the performance expected on site.
Demand for electric plant continues to grow across the industry. We remain committed to investing in machinery that helps meet the changing needs of our customers.
By offering both electric plant and electric transport solutions, we are taking practical steps towards supporting a more sustainable future for the construction sector.
Electric Vehicles Across Our Business
Our new electric lorry joins a growing number of electric vehicles already operating across H. E. Services.
We currently utilise fully electric BMW i3 escort vehicles and Maxus eDeliver9 electric fitters vans. These vehicles support a range of operational activities while helping reduce emissions.
Our sustainability efforts extend beyond the hire fleet. We continue to assess opportunities across the business where electric alternatives can deliver practical benefits. Our sister company, EVision, is the UK’s first and largest all-electric vehicle rental company, offering a wide range of electric cars, vans and other vehicles for hire.
As technology develops, we expect even more opportunities to emerge. We will continue monitoring those developments and investing where it makes sense for our operations.
The H. E. Services Electric Lorry Is Just the Beginning
Bringing our first electric lorry into service is an exciting milestone for H. E. Services. However, we see it as the start of a much bigger journey.
We have already invested in electric plant, electric service vehicles and charging infrastructure. Together, these investments create a strong foundation for future growth. They also support our goal of reducing emissions across our operations.
As technology continues to evolve, we will keep exploring opportunities to expand our electric vehicle fleet. We will also invest in the infrastructure needed to support it. This approach will help ensure we continue delivering the service our customers expect while embracing new technologies.
Our DAF FA XD 220 is more than just a new vehicle. It represents another step forward in our commitment to innovation, sustainability and long term investment. We are excited to see where the journey takes us next.
Give us a call on: 0208 804 2000 or email us for a quote.
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All information correct as of: 17/09/2026
