A TILBURY-based company planning to change freight transport has launched its new hydrogen-electric heavy goods vehicle.

Electric and hydrogen truck manufacturers  Tevva is based on the London Distribution Park on Windrush Road and yesterday too its new 7.5 tonne truck - the first vehicle of its kind to be manufactured, designed and mass-produced in the UK – to the Road Transport Expo in Stoneleigh yesterday (Friday, 1 July).

Tevva says the truck has a range of 310 miles and can be refuelled in as little as five minutes.

The company also unveiled its latest full-battery vehicle range at the exhibition.

Hydrogen has been used safely in buses and other vehicles in more than 20 countries for many years and has a higher energy density than lithium-ion batteries or even diesel. Because of these properties, it is particularly attractive for use in larger, commercial vehicles.

Borough MP Jackie Doyle-Price visited the Tevva site earlier this year.

By adding a hydrogen fuel cell system to its battery-electric HGV design, Tevva is delivering zero-emission solutions that will work for the overwhelming majority of fleet operators across a range of industries and sectors. The fuel cell system tops up the battery, extending the vehicle's range and allowing the truck to carry heavier loads over longer distances.

Tevva CEO and founder Asher Bennett said: "We are excited to launch our hydrogen electric HGV, creating a landmark moment for Tevva and UK manufacturing.

"We firmly believe that the post-fossil fuel future, which is quickly approaching, will see a new range of technologies and fuels take centre stage in the transport industry.

"By embracing hydrogen, we are futureproofing ourselves, our clients and the industries and communities they operate in. We also pride ourselves on the fact that our vehicles are safe, reliable and go the distance.

"Combined with our commitment to customer service, we believe that Tevva's hydrogen electric truck will be a popular choice for fleet operators across the UK, Europe and eventually North America."