First Electric Heavy-goods Vehicle crosses Channel Tunnel with Leshuttle Freight
The first electric heavy goods vehicle (eHGV) has crossed the English Channel on a LeShuttle freight train.
In a joint effort to advance low-carbon logistics, Kuehne+Nagel, LeShuttle Freight, Voltempo, and DAF Trucks have successfully sent the first electric heavy-goods vehicle (eHGV) through the Channel Tunnel.
The eHGV began its journey in the East Midlands, ending in northen Germany and carrying 12 tonnes of cargo. The vehicle can be driven up to 300 miles (482km) on one charge. The trucks charge fully overnight, and at regular intervals during the drivers’ breaks.
It is part of a government and industry-wide bid to reduce haulage greenhouse gas emissions. The vehicles can already travel to France via ferry, but the Channel Tunnel requires specific safety protocols for large electric vehicles. The process has now been finalised, and eHGV travel will be rolled out commercially later this year.
Peter Roberts, LeShuttle Freight commercial strategy director, admitted that eHGVs still make up a small proportion of the market. He said the demand was growing, and he expected 50,000 truck crossings to be electrified in five years’ time. “It’s really important for logistics as we grow our decarbonising strategies as an industry,” he said.
About 25% of the UK’s trade with the EU travels through the Channel Tunnel each year. In 2025, a total of 1,163,124 HGVs used LeShuttle. Source >
Kate Broome, sustainability and social impact director for logistics company Kuehne+Nagel, said it marked the first UK-EU “electric corridor” for freight transport. Read more from BBC >
For more information simply call our friendly and helpful team on: +44 (0) 1709 610 000, or simply send a message >
All shipments will require an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) to be submitted in advance. Your entry summary declaration must be complete, accurate, and submitted on time. Goods arriving without a valid ENS may face delays, inspections, or refusal at the EU border.
Red Sea shipping refers to the crucial trade route connecting Europe and Asia via the Suez Canal, vital for global commerce, but currently experiencing major disruption due to Houthi rebel attacks from Yemen since late 2023.
Back in 1836, Thomas Meadows and Company Limited of London, began to see the need for this industry following the demand created by more reliable rail transport and steamships. Trade was increasing to Europe and North America in particular. In fact the first freight forwarders were London innkeepers who forwarded on the luggage of their hotel guests!
Currently, low value imports – goods with a value of £135 or less being imported into the UK – can claim a customs duty relief. VAT is due on these goods following reforms in 2021. Goods worth more than £135 can incur a duty of up to 25%.