Voltempo Unveils Cabless Electric Lorry for Heavy Logistics

UK electric vehicle specialist Voltempo is developing a cabless, 15.6-meter autonomous rigid lorry designed to maximize cargo capacity and minimize vehicle weight, with prototype testing slated for late 2027 and initial commercial deliveries expected in mid-2028. This innovative design eliminates the traditional driver's cab, transforming the vehicle into what founder Michael Boxwell describes as a "smart trailer." This radical departure from conventional truck design significantly reduces aerodynamic drag and overall vehicle mass, thereby extending the electric range and substantially increasing freight volume. By removing the cab, approximately two tonnes of dead weight are eliminated. A typical electric articulated tractor and trailer weigh around 19 tonnes when empty, but Voltempo's new design aims to reduce the unladen mass to between 10 and 12 tonnes. This architectural shift is projected to create 15% more cargo space and allow for an additional five to seven tonnes of usable payload. The company is not adapting existing diesel truck formats but is instead constructing a hyper-efficient "box on wheels" specifically engineered for autonomous operations and zero-emission deliveries. The physical construction of the prototype is being undertaken by Berkeley Coachworks, a manufacturing facility specializing in lightweight composite structures. The electric drivetrain will be supplied by a prominent commercial vehicle manufacturer. Major European truck brands have reportedly agreed to approve the prototype as an official vehicle classification, indicating potential industry-wide acceptance. The development timeline is ambitious, with the initial build scheduled for completion by September 2027. Prototype testing will commence shortly thereafter at a dedicated track located in South Wales. Voltempo anticipates that favorable legislative shifts, such as the UK Automated Vehicles Act 2024, will pave the way for the immediate real-world application of this autonomous logistics solution. The company's focus on a purpose-built autonomous platform, rather than retrofitting existing designs, underscores a commitment to optimizing efficiency and sustainability in the heavy goods transport sector. The five-axle configuration of the 15.6-meter lorry is designed to accommodate a 42-tonne capacity, further enhancing its utility for large-scale freight operations. This initiative represents a significant step towards reimagining the future of logistics, prioritizing electric power, autonomous technology, and maximized cargo efficiency.