Linfox has been granted further access to the road network for its latest Volvo electric prime movers.
In collaboration with Transurban and the Department of Transport and Planning (DPT) in Victoria, the transport and logistics titan can now operate its electric prime movers on CityLink as part of a 12-month trial.
In doing so it would expedite the transportation of groceries and essential goods from one side of the city to the other, while reducing congestion on inner city roads.
While electric vehicles are already permitted on CityLink, including the Bolte Bridge and in the Burnley and Domain tunnels, these prime movers have a heavier steer axle weight so special consideration was required.
By using CityLink, the Bolte Bridge and the tunnels, these bigger electric prime movers can avoid local roads and save up to 40 minutes on their delivery tasks.
In a statement Linfox said it was a significant achievement for the logistics industry paving the way for the effective deployment of electric trucks.
“We have established a trusted and positive relationship, with Transurban and Department of Transport and Planning, and are working together to achieve our common goal to improve sustainability across the logistics industry,” said Doug Fryer, Linfox President, Corporate Services.
“This is a critical partnership, which has allowed Linfox to optimise transport routes and provide customers with efficient and viable options for more sustainable deliveries.”
Victoria’s Low or zero Emission Heavy Vehicle (LZEHV) pre-approved network access map has been updated on the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) website to help facilitate this trial.
In September 2023, Victoria published the country’s first map dedicated to low or zero emission heavy vehicles.
That map demarcated the roads that these vehicles were approved to use.
The Department of Transport and Planning is collaborating with local government areas to expand the council-managed road network available for these vehicles.
The trial will also allow Transurban and DTP to assess how heavy electric vehicles may help improve the future operation of Melbourne’s road network.
Linfox has committed to rolling out 26 new Volvo electric prime movers in both Australia and New Zealand by 2028.
Freight operators represent a significant portion of Transurban’s customers.
The company said it was committed to supporting the freight industry’s EV transition.
In addition to the Linfox Heavy EVs trial, Transurban is also supporting decarbonisation of the transport sector through its our own Sustainable Driving Program.
“Freight keeps our cities moving, and electric trucks have a critical role to play in its future,” said David Clements, Transurban Group Executive Operations.
“This trial demonstrates what’s possible when industry and government come together to solve challenges and shape smarter, cleaner transport networks.
“We’re proud to be working alongside Linfox and the Department of Transport and Planning to support the next generation of freight vehicles and ensure our road network is ready for them.”
