Ferryspeed leads the way in Jersey with first electric tractor for two-week trial

Ferryspeed is trialling a fully electric tractor unit in our Jersey depot for a two-week demonstration, to see whether this type of vehicle will work in the Channel Islands. 

The vehicle on trial is a DAF XD Electric 350 model. It has five battery packs and a range from 150 to 300 miles, depending on specification and the weight it’s pulling. 

Fleet Manager, George Mcloughlin, explains “If the trial is successful, these vehicles could be an important step in lowering our emissions within our Jersey and Guernsey operations.” 

As part of the demonstration, Transport Manager, Anibal Gouveia (pictured), has been trained to operate the tractor and will now share that knowledge with other drivers in the team.  

Sharing his first impressions, Anibal said: “I’ve had really good training and it’s beautiful to drive. I’m very impressed and I’m looking forward to training other drivers.” 

According to trainer Andy Parker from Adams Morey (the company lending us the vehicle): “The cab is very similar to a standard diesel tractor unit, but it does need some adjustments in driving style to get the best from the electric powertrain.” 

Representatives from the Driver and Vehicle Standards team from the Government of Jersey have also visited to find out more about the tractor from a safety and general awareness point of view.