John G Russell Transport joins ZENFreight to demonstrate hydrogen and electric HGVs

The move will see the Glasgow-based firm integrate both hydrogen fuel cell and battery-electric heavy goods vehicles into its fleet, as part of a multi-year real-world demonstration of zero-emission technologies.

Under the ZENFreight initiative, led by data analytics company Dynamon, Russell will deploy three hydrogen-electric Scania HFCEVs and three MAN battery-electric HGVs. The vehicles, configured as 6×2 rigids and tractors, will be the first of their kind to operate in parallel trials in the UK.

ZENFreight is the only one of the four ZEHID-funded consortia offering a direct comparison between the two leading zero-emission powertrains. By placing both battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles into day-to-day logistics operations, the project aims to gather evidence on performance, cost-effectiveness, and infrastructure requirements in a live environment.

Russell’s participation includes installing depot infrastructure to support both technologies.

The company’s Coatbridge site will add high-capacity electric charging points and a hydrogen refuelling system, forming part of a shared nationwide network being developed by the consortium.

Graham Russell, Director, Russell said: “As latecomers to the project Russell has taken up the challenge to support the DFT Project as it is in line with the company’s goals. It has taken a great effort by our team lead by Group Fleet Engineer, Stephen Madden to put us in the position where we are now proud to be announced as having joined ZENFreight and build on the great work already undertaken by our consortium colleagues. Our group is committed to sustainable logistics, using innovation and cutting-edge technology to reduce our environmental impact. As a key player in our customers’ supply chains, we take this responsibility seriously. The ZEHID demonstration project is a major step forward, allowing us to trial both electric and hydrogen technologies for heavy duty transport in real world operation, an exciting opportunity to build confidence in the future of zero emission freight, and we are delighted to be at the forefront, and play our part in driving the transition to cleaner, greener logistics.”

Founded in Glasgow and operating 14 depots across the UK, Russell joins other logistics firms including Gregory Distribution, Maritime Transport and DFDS, alongside academic partner Imperial College London and truck manufacturers DAF, Daimler, Scania, and Volvo.

Angus Webb, CEO of Dynamon, welcomed the new addition: “We warmly welcome Russell to the consortium, as they integrate both technologies into their fleet for real world trials. With a nationwide fleet and a seamlessly connected road and rail network, Russell delivers high-standard logistics solutions across the FMCG sector and beyond with an unwavering commitment to sustainability, making them the ideal fleet to demonstrate zero-emission vehicles.”

Victoria Saunders, Innovation Lead – Hydrogen in Transport, Innovate UK, said: “The addition of Russell Group to the ZENFreight consortium enhances the programme’s ability to evaluate hydrogen fuel cell and battery-electric technologies within a single operating structure. Through real-world trials and collaboration, ZENFreight will generate valuable insights into the strengths of each technology in the HGV sector. Innovate UK is proud to support this pioneering initiative, which will play a key role in accelerating the shift to zero emission freight and advancing the UK’s net zero ambitions.”

The ZENFreight project will see all vehicles on the road by March 2026, with many operational in 2025. Each will be benchmarked against diesel equivalents, with the trial continuing for five years. Findings will help shape government and industry decisions on infrastructure investment and vehicle technology choices as the UK transitions toward net zero freight.