The latest Net Zero Timhaul (NZTH) Project report is proving that electric timber haulage works under real operating conditions in Scotland.
Supported by Scottish Forestry, and delivered by Creel Maritime Ltd, the project now into its final year, was launched to accelerate decarbonisation across Scotland’s timber transport sector and build confidence in battery-electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs). Since 2023, a Volvo FH 40t electric tractor unit (James Jones and Sons Ltd) and a 44t rigid (Scotlog) have been operating in demanding environments. Over the last two years and 132,309 km, the trucks have avoided 165 tonnes of CO₂e while demonstrating strong reliability, efficiency and driver acceptance.
Results show that electric HGVs can go on to significantly reduce emissions in typical forestry duty cycles, particularly regional-to-base operations. While challenges remain including range, infrastructure, capital cost and grid capacity market confidence is increasing as vehicle technology, charging networks and grant aid matures. There is a plan to extend the NZTH project beyond summer 2026 to test emerging truck and remote charging technology.
The 2025 project report can be seen here.
The NZTH Project provides clear evidence that electric timber haulage is almost viable today, with the potential to become a mainstream solution supporting Scotland’s Net Zero ambitions.
