5.9 Heavy-duty vehicle charging

5.9 Heavy-duty vehicle charging hubs

2. By 2030, this level of cover will be deployed throughout the full TEN-T Comprehensive Network and the capacity on the Core Network will be doubled to 600 kW.

The transition of heavy-duty vehicles from fossil fuel to electricity has been slower than in the light-vehicle industry. However, truck manufacturers have either already started or are about to start series production of their new zero-emission trucks82. The transition to electric buses is also significant across Europe, particularly in the city-bus sector, where 21% of all new registrations were electric in 202183.

Following the publication of this Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Strategy, ZEVI, in conjunction with TII, ESBN, and private operators, will develop a National EV Charging Network Plan (En-Route Charging). This will consider the charging infrastructure needs for en-route charging along with the dedicated infrastructure requirements for heavy goods vehicles. Pending the final agreement of the AFIR regulation, this implementation strategy should be delivered in Q2 2023.

The charging needs of buses is likely to be met at bus stations and bus depots, with opportunity charging taking place on public infrastructure.

The delivery of this en-route EV charging network will reassure existing and future EV users who may have concerns about EV charging availability, particularly when planning longer journeys.

The Climate Action Plan has called for 700 HDVs and 300 electric buses by 2025, growing to 3,500 low-emission trucks and 1,500 electric buses by 2030. It is expected that the speed of adaptation to electricity will take off significantly in the latter half of this decade.

How might we design wayfinding solutions so that people can easily find EV chargers en route?

In addition to catering for Irish vehicles, charging infrastructure must also cater for the international haulage business which will be dependent on public charging infrastructure in Ireland.

How might we create a safe and pleasant en-route charging location for users?

The Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation is expected to call for a skeleton infrastructure to be installed by 2025, with this to be rapidly increased by 2030 and 2035.

How might we provide a seamless charging experience, especially for those not familiar with the service?

It is estimated that by end of 2025, at least 8 charging pools, dedicated to infrastructure for HDVs (including buses), will be installed across the TEN-T Network (motorway network). Each motorway charging pool will consist of an aggregate charging capacity of 1400 kW with at least one 350 kW charger.

How might we ensure that the number and power of enroute chargers is adequate to minimise queuing?

In addition to this, by 2025, a dedicated HDV charging pool of at least 600 kW will be present at each of Dublin, Cork, and Shannon airports.

How might we provide accessible chargers and information for those who need them?

In order to enable the delivery of this infrastructure, ZEVI will work with private

82 Getting zero-emission trucks on the road - ACEA - European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association

83 Cities are buying more electric buses, but an EU deadline is needed (transportenvironment.org)

sector providers, as well as TII, ESBN, and local authorities to develop a National EV Charging Network Plan (En-Route Charging) for HGVs. The key risks and dependencies outlined in Table 3 are particularly pertinent in relation to this category of charge point infrastructure. The National EV Charging Network Plan (En-Route Charging) for HGVs will consider what mitigation measures can be put in place as well as considering how the supply of enabling services can be delivered. As well as this, ZEVI will engage with haulage industry stakeholders, DAA, and Cork and Shannon airports to deliver this goal.

How might we ensure that charging requirements don’t unnecessarily delay HGV drivers who are working to tight deadlines?

How might we design forecourts in a way that gives HGV drivers access to dedicated HGV chargers and spaces to rest?

Sustainable Transport Hierarchy

		Walking and wheeling
		Cycling
		Public transport
	C sh	ar clubs, taxis & ared transport & oods vehicles
	g

Figure from page 57

CHAPTER

6

Implementation

This final chapter contains information on the ZEVI structures, the high-level actions, funding streams, and supports that have been implemented since the publication of the draft strategy in March 2022. It also presents an overview of the Implementation Plan. The draft version of this strategy underwent a public consultation process. Details from that process have been incorporated into this final strategy.

maximising cooperation, the Government will work with the Northern Ireland Executive to promote and support EV charging infrastructure deployment. This will happen through initiatives such as the Shared Island Fund, as well as through other international collaborative and funding opportunities. This collaborative approach will help integrate and standardise public charge point networks on the island, to ensure ease of use and application for cross-border travel.