This announcement follows the handover of three prototype hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) to John G Russell at Scania's Eurocentral site in Scotland. Together, John G Russell and Scania will undertake the first real-world trial of fuel cell heavy goods vehicles operating in day-to-day logistics applications on UK roads.

The vehicles form part of the ZENFreight project, one of the Government-backed Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) programme initiatives, funded by the Department for Transport and delivered in partnership with Innovate UK. The project is helping to explore how a range of zero-emission technologies can support the future decarbonisation of freight transport across the UK.

Developed by Scania's Pilot Partner division, the trucks are among a small fleet of prototype fuel cell vehicles being tested across Europe in different operational environments. The trial will provide valuable insight into how hydrogen fuel cell technology performs in real-world logistics operations, helping to assess its potential role alongside battery electric vehicles in the transition to net zero freight.

The project builds on John G Russell's longstanding commitment to innovation and sustainability. From pioneering intermodal freight solutions to participating in nationwide decarbonisation initiatives, the business continues to explore practical ways of reducing emissions while maintaining the reliable transport services that customers depend on every day.

By operating the vehicles within live customer operations, John G Russell and Scania will gather vital operational data on vehicle performance, range and operational suitability. The findings will help inform the future development of zero-emission freight technologies and support the wider industry's transition towards a more sustainable transport network.