Electric HGVs are beginning to move from trials and demonstration fleets into a more realistic option for UK haulage operators.

Government support is also increasing. In 2026, new funding was announced to help businesses with both the cost of zero-emission trucks and the charging infrastructure required to operate them.

But replacing a diesel HGV with an electric truck isn't simply a case of choosing a different powertrain. Operators need to consider vehicle cost, range, charging infrastructure, payload, downtime and insurance before deciding whether electric is right for their operation.

Government Support for Electric HGVs

The Government is providing substantial financial support to encourage commercial vehicle operators to move towards zero-emission vehicles.

The Depot Charging Scheme is a multi-year programme designed specifically to help operators install charging infrastructure for electric HGVs, vans and coaches.

The first 2026 funding window provided grants covering 70% of eligible charge point and civil costs, up to £1 million across an organisation's sites. A further application window is expected to open on 28 October 2026, although the grant rates and terms for that phase have yet to be confirmed.

Government support is also available towards the purchase of qualifying zero-emission trucks.

For operators considering electrification, these schemes can significantly alter the financial calculation.

Is an Electric HGV Suitable for Every Haulage Operation?

Not necessarily.

Electric HGVs are likely to make most sense initially where vehicles operate relatively predictable routes and return regularly to a depot where they can be charged.

Operators undertaking long-distance or highly variable work need to consider charging availability carefully.

The Government itself recognises that access to suitable charging infrastructure remains an important issue, particularly for long-distance journeys, and is consulting on further strategic charging infrastructure at motorway service areas.

Before purchasing an electric HGV, operators should therefore consider:

• Typical daily mileage
• Payload requirements
• Where vehicles are parked overnight
• Availability and speed of depot charging
• Electricity supply capacity at the depot
• Public charging availability on regular routes
• The effect of charging time on vehicle utilisation
• Purchase price and likely residual value

For some businesses, electric trucks may already be commercially viable. For others, diesel may remain the more practical option for some time.

Don't Underestimate the Charging Infrastructure

The vehicle itself is only part of the investment.

A haulage company moving towards electric HGVs may need new charging equipment, electrical work, groundworks and potentially an upgraded electricity connection.

This is particularly important for operators planning to electrify several vehicles.

A depot capable of charging one truck overnight may require very different infrastructure once five, ten or twenty electric HGVs are operating from the same site.

Operators considering the switch should therefore assess their future fleet requirements rather than simply installing sufficient charging capacity for the first vehicle.

What About Electric HGV Insurance?

Insurance should also form part of the planning process.

An electric HGV is still fundamentally a commercial vehicle, but its value, technology and repair requirements can differ considerably from those of a conventional diesel truck.

When arranging Truck Insurance for an electric HGV, insurers may consider factors including:

• Vehicle purchase and replacement value
• Battery value
• Repair costs
• Availability of specialist repair facilities
• Vehicle use and annual mileage
• Driver experience
• Where the vehicle is kept overnight
• Charging arrangements

Operators adding electric trucks to an existing fleet should also speak to their insurance broker before purchasing the vehicles.

This allows the broker to establish whether the existing Haulage Fleet Insurance policy can accommodate them and whether any additional information or risk-management requirements will apply.

Goods in Transit and Liability Cover Still Matter

Changing the vehicle's power source doesn't change the fundamental risks associated with carrying goods for customers.

Operators still need to consider appropriate Goods in Transit Insurance and Hauliers' Liability Insurance, together with any contractual insurance requirements imposed by customers.

Businesses operating internationally will also need to ensure their arrangements remain appropriate for European journeys.

Planning for the Future

The transition from diesel to zero-emission HGVs will not happen overnight.

Different types of haulage operation will move at different speeds, and operators should make decisions based on the practical requirements of their own business rather than simply following industry trends.

However, with substantial investment now being made in vehicles and charging infrastructure, electric HGVs are likely to become an increasingly important part of the UK haulage industry.

For operators considering their first electric truck, involving their accountant, vehicle supplier, charging infrastructure provider and insurance broker early in the process can help identify potential costs and problems before committing to the investment.

Specialist Haulage Insurance Advice

Avis Insurance Services has specialised in arranging insurance for the UK haulage industry for over 40 years.

Whether you operate a single HGV or a larger fleet, our experienced team can help you arrange insurance appropriate to your vehicles and the work you undertake.

Considering adding an electric HGV to your business? Contact our specialist team to discuss your insurance requirements.