Explore Transport secures the first Scania FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) prototype for their UK operations

Explore Transport, logistics specialists with over 50 years of experience in construction, rail, aerospace and nuclear sectors, havesecured the first Scania FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) prototypefor UK operations.The acquisition marks a clear step forwardtowards net-zero transport solutions for tier one contractors and large-scale infrastructure projects in the UK. 

Explore Transport is committed to leadingthe industry in reducing‘Scope 3’ emissions, delivering environmentally friendly logistics without compromising efficiency or reliability. Under the UK Government’s Zero Emission HGV Infrastructure Demonstrator Programme(ZEHID), funded by the Department for Transport (DfT) and delivered in collaboration with Innovate UK, Explore Transport and HyHAUL are driving forward the future of sustainable zero-emission logistics. Through HyHAUL, we are leading the way in the demonstration of Hydrogen Fuel Cell capability with real-world operational data on performance, efficiency, sustainability and the long-term viability of zero emission transport in construction logistics. 

Chris Gatheridge, Operations Director at Explore: “Our investment into Scania FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle)marks a major milestone in our journey towards sustainable transport solutions. By adopting this cutting-edge technology from an industry leading OEM, we are not only taking measures to reduce ourown carbon footprint, but we are also providing customers with a sustainable alternative that is not yet readily available in the logistics sector: cleaner, greener, zero-emission transport solutions.”

Chris continued, “We believe that Hydrogen has the potential to meet the unique demands of construction logistics, with the performance and capability to manage heavy loads. By securing the first Scania FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) prototypein the UK, we are further demonstrating our commitment to a greener future for logistics, with the unit set to be on the road and in operation inQ1 2026.”

Mark Bridgland, Sales Director at Scania UK, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Explore and helping them on their decarbonisation journey.

“It is vital that we as manufacturers work with our customers to find solutions that work for them, as well as help them cut emissions and remain profitable. In this case, we chose to involve our Pilot Partner team, to help us and Explore find a zero emissions solution for their specific use case and needs.

“Seeing how our prototype FCEV truck performs for Explore day-to-day will be fascinating, plus it will provide us with invaluable insight and data.”

Kyle Arnold, Managing Director at HyHAUL:“HyHAUL is leading the way in hydrogen heavy transport supply chain, we are committed to demonstrating the real-world practical application of H2 FCEV in real-world conditions. Our collaboration with Explore Transport and Scania underscores our dedication to decarbonising the heaviest transport sectors.By providing expert analysis, operational support, and strategic implementation of the Hydrogen Refuelling Infrastructure and H2FCEV HGVs, we are ensuring that zero-emission transport solutions are both feasible and scalable. This initiative is a significant step forward in proving that hydrogen technology can meet the demanding needs of HGV transportation, paving the way for a cleaner, greener future. Having Explore as the first customer is a significant milestone for the project, HyHAUL and the UK pathway to a greener future, this is fantastic partnership that will only continue to grow.”

Scania’s Pilot Partner division based in Sweden has developed a group of fuel cell prototype tractor units to test the viability of hydrogen to support logistics operations similar to Explore’s.

This 6x2*4 tractor unit is built on Scania’s battery electric platform fitted with a 400kW electric machine and 416kWh of batteries. In addition, the truck is fitted with fuel cell motor, cooling fans and 56kg hydrogen storage tanks, which gives the vehicle an estimated range up to 850 km.

Explore Plant and Transport Solutionsis a specialist supplier of transport and plant hire services in the UK with a fleet of 200 trucks, 6,000 plant hire assets and 7 depots nationwide. It employs over 300 people and generates an annual turnover in excess of £70 million.

The Transport division combines over 50 years of construction logistics and haulage expertise, and the Plant and Rail division boasts one of the largest, most diverse and modern ranges of plant equipment, small tools, formwork and falsework systems. Both in-house divisions providing bespoke end to end services tailored to customer requirements.