UK authorities Innovate UK and Zenzic offer financial support for a trial of autonomous heavy goods vehicles in the UK
UK-Based Consortium Secures Funding for Autonomous Freight Transport Research
The UK-based consortium eFREIGHT Autonomous has secured funding from the UK government through the CAM Pathfinder Feasibility Studies (FS) Competition, delivered by Innovate UK and Zenzic. The consortium, led by Voltempo Group, a specialist in EV charging, aims to explore the role of autonomous HGVs (heavy goods vehicles) in the UK from the perspective of fleet operations.
Other organizations involved in the consortium include Berkeley Coachworks and Connected Places Catapult. Berkeley Coachworks plans to develop autonomous HGVs at its manufacturing site and test track in Trecwn, Pembrokeshire.
Commenting on this latest funding announcement, Sir Vince Cable, former secretary of state for business, innovation and skills and chairman of the consortium, said: "We are delighted to have been selected to take part in the CAM Pathfinder feasibility study to research, evaluate and help shape the future of UK freight transport from the perspective of fleet operators."
The full implementation of the Automated Vehicles Act in the UK is expected by 2027, and eFREIGHT Autonomous will produce reports and briefing documents outlining the roadmap for autonomous heavy road freight vehicles. Autonomous HGVs could potentially be operational by the end of 2027.
The consortium will identify potential use cases, assess commercial viability, and examine the infrastructure and legislative frameworks required to enable autonomous trucking in the UK. Sir Vince Cable, who has a long-standing relationship with autonomous vehicles, having announced measures to facilitate the introduction of driverless vehicles on UK roads in 2014, emphasized the opportunity for real-world trials with autonomous HGVs on UK roads.
Autonomous technology offers a chance to unlock innovation across transport, strengthen the UK supply chain, and rethink logistics that are cleaner, greener, and better for local communities and better for business. The fourth annual CiTTi Awards will recognize achievements and innovations in connected autonomous vehicles on November 25, 2025, at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London.
Trials for self-driving vehicles are ongoing in the UK, including self-driving shuttles in Birmingham and autonomous buses in Scotland. Autonomous vehicles are already in everyday use in parts of China and the US.
Work on the eFREIGHT Autonomous feasibility study project is due to begin in summer 2025, with results expected in early 2027. The consortium's efforts align with the DAVO's (an organization including around 1300 scientists, students, media representatives, institutions, and other members interested in orientation) mission to advance the development and adoption of autonomous vehicles in the UK.
