Global technology company Siemens has partnered with its long-term global logistics provider Kuehne+Nagel to roll out Electric Heavy Goods Vehicles (eHGVs) for part of its UK and Ireland logistics operations, taking a significant step forward in low-carbon supply chain solutions.
The eHGVs will replace diesel vehicles to transport and deliver materials and products to and from Siemens’ Congleton site and supplier facilities across the north of England. Operating on a “milk run” model, where a single vehicle collects or delivers goods from multiple locations on a fixed route, the new eHGVs – which have range of up to 400km and can carry up to 44 tonnes - will eliminate around 12 tonnes of CO₂e per year on a key Siemens route.
Still in its pilot stage, the initiative is the first phase of a broader collaboration between the two companies to reduce emissions and explore how this initiative can be scaled-up to electrify road freight for other Siemens sites and businesses in the UK.
Rob Matthews, Managing Director of Siemens Congleton, said: “This partnership represents a meaningful shift in how we approach logistics and sustainability. By introducing electric Heavy Goods Vehicles into our operations at Congleton, we are not only reducing emissions but also rethinking how we deliver efficiency and resilience across our supply chain. By working closely with Kuehne+Nagel and our on-site logistics team, we've achieved measurable environmental benefits through the use of electric trucks - without compromising on operational excellence, reliability, on-time performance or service.
“This is a clear example of how collaboration and technology can accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy while continuing to support the industries and communities we serve.”
Rob Palmer, Commercial Director at Kuehne+Nagel added: “We're proud to partner with Siemens in accelerating the shift to low-emission transport across their operations. It's inspiring to see industry leaders like Siemens championing the adoption of electric trucks - setting a powerful example for how the UK can scale low-emission logistics.”
Siemens Congleton specialises in the design and production of low-voltage variable speed drives (VSDs) and power electronics. The business manufactures a high volume of controls and drives for customers globally at the facility every year.
The factory is a showcase of Siemens’ commitment to innovation and robust eco design principles, with many of the products manufactured on site holding the leading EcoTech environmental product performance label. Built with sustainable materials and circular design thinking, these products demonstrate how advanced engineering can reduce environmental impact while enhancing performance and resilience.
This approach is part of Siemens’ broader strategy to embed sustainability into every stage of product and process development, as outlined in the Siemens DEGREE Framework.
As part of its sustainability efforts, the Congleton factory also spearheaded the Havannah Weir Hydro Scheme. Developed in partnership with Dane Valley Community Energy, the project generates 75kW of renewable electricity from the River Dane and feeds it directly into the Congleton site via a 1km underground cable.
