Actemium has completed the United Kingdom’s first publicly accessible charging hub designed specifically for battery-electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs). The facility, located at Moto Exeter service station on the M5 motorway in Devon, represents a critical milestone in decarbonizing UK freight operations.
Highlights
- Four dedicated eHGV charging bays featuring nine ABB Terra chargers delivering 175–350kW output now operational at Moto Exeter
- 15-week construction phase completed by Actemium as principal contractor within a six-month turnkey program
- £100m+ consortium funding supports GRIDSERVE’s Electric Freightway initiative, including £62.7m from the UK Government
- Infrastructure designed for expansion to accommodate future increases in electric truck demand
Technical Specifications and Scope
Actemium delivered comprehensive engineering services spanning feasibility assessment, detailed design, network connectivity, drainage, civil works, electrical installation, commissioning, and handover. The project required highways-specification surfacing and complex civil engineering.
The charging infrastructure utilizes ABB Terra units capable of delivering between 175kW and 350kW. All chargers operate on sustainable energy sources consistent with GRIDSERVE’s broader energy strategy.
Electric Freightway Program Context
The Moto Exeter hub launches GRIDSERVE’s Electric Freightway program, a national initiative establishing public eHGV charging infrastructure at motorway service areas and truck stops throughout the UK. The Department for Transport and Innovate UK provide governmental support for the initiative.
Electric trucks present distinct operational requirements compared to passenger vehicles. The charging hub design specifically addresses these differences, including larger bay dimensions and higher power delivery systems.
Construction and Safety Considerations
The project presented significant logistical challenges. Construction crews maintained full public access and traffic flow throughout the build phase within the live motorway service area. Actemium completed the work through detailed planning and coordination with GRIDSERVE and Moto.
About Actemium
Actemium UK reported 2024 revenues of £102 million and employs 635 people across 14 specialist engineering companies in 20 locations nationwide. The global Actemium organization generates €4 billion in revenues with over 27,000 employees across more than 40 countries.
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