By Grimsby reacts to M180 e-highway proposal
A feasibility study is currently under way in North East Lincolnshire into a trial motorway electrification scheme, according to the BBC.
If approved, the pilot scheme would see 19-miles of the M180 electrified to allow electric HGVs to recharge while travelling along motorways.
A similar trial is already underway in Germany, but the project would be the first of its kind in the UK.
Speaking to BBC Radio Humberside, Justin Moss, of Siemens Mobility, a member of the consortium carrying out the feasibility study, said the project could lead to new technology and new jobs.
He added: “Overhead lines like rail technology could be used on motorways to try and reduce emissions.”
The feasibility study, which has been underway for almost seven months, is due at the end of March.
Almost 250 locals responded to our initial Facebook post to share their views.
Most locals were opposed to the plans – heres what they had to say:
“Great – more road works and another waste of money.”
“This is a daft plan. How many transport companies are going to covert their fleet to electric HGVs and actually use this system?”
“Maybe they should finish the existing road works before you start planning more…”
“A waste of tax-payers money once again!”
However, a few were in favour of the plans:
“It seems like it’s worth a try. It’s important to think of what will happen when Diesel engines are superseded which is only supposed to be 8 years away.”
“It’s easy to criticise but the only thing we know is that we can’t keep doing what we’re doing now.”
What do you think of the proposal? Let us know in the comments!
