Across the different sessions, the project results pointed to a clear conclusion: the feasibility of battery-electric freight transport can only be properly understood when vehicle performance, charging strategies, logistics operations and energy management are assessed together. One of the most valuable contributions of the project is the amount of operational evidence generated through its pilot activities. Rather than focusing exclusively on vehicle technology, NextETRUCK examined how innovative truck and trailer concepts perform within day-to-day logistics operations, providing a more realistic picture of opportunities and limitations.

A recurring theme throughout the event was energy efficiency. Results presented from the pilots demonstrated that significant improvements can be achieved through the optimisation of the complete transport system, including vehicle design, trailer solutions, energy management and operational planning. This underlines the importance of considering efficiency gains beyond the vehicle itself.

The project’s evaluation activities also stood out. Considerable effort was invested in developing a structured assessment framework capable of capturing technical, operational and environmental impacts. This allowed project partners not only to measure performance but also to identify conditions under which the demonstrated solutions can be replicated and scaled.

Another important message concerned the role of real-world demonstrations in building confidence across the sector. Operational data generated during the pilots provided valuable evidence on energy consumption, performance and deployment requirements, helping bridge the gap between promising concepts and practical implementation.

The event also highlighted that the transition to zero-emission freight transport requires collaboration across the entire value chain. Vehicle developers, fleet operators, researchers and other stakeholders all contributed to generating knowledge that extends well beyond the project’s individual demonstrations.

NextETRUCK leaves a valuable legacy not only in terms of technology development, but also through the lessons learned from operating innovative freight solutions in real environments. The project’s findings provide useful input for future initiatives seeking to accelerate the deployment of efficient and zero-emission road freight transport across Europe.