COLLINS EARTHWORKS
Based in Ripley, Collins Earthworks has been building a foundation in the civil and earthmoving sector for over 20 years. A repertoire of projects spanning two decades means they have likewise developed an expansive fleet of heavy duty refuse and logistics vehicles, which they have recently made the decision to transition to more green energy sources.
To facilitate this transition, the team at Collins reached out to Rolec to aid in the creation, implementation and management of an EV charging network to support their growing needs, starting at their depot in Derbyshire.
SCOPE
Collins aim was to lay the groundwork for their initial phase of EV charging to start building up their network. More specifically, delivering on an efficient DC charging network to fully support their larger vehicles, e.g. lorries and HGVs.
With the size and capacity of these vehicles in mind, accommodations would need to be made to make the charging experience more seamless, such as a larger electrical output via DC units and also a way to adapt the cables to be long enough to reach the typically higher charging ports.
Alongside this, Collins wanted to ensure operational efficiencies of the site, including accurate vehicle downtime and quick turnaround times for charging sessions. As well as a competent back-office management system, Monta, that would allow them full visibility of vehicle charging status and efficient reporting systems.
As Collins endeavours to become a greener company, their commitments to sustainable investments and infrastructure are becoming increasingly more important. As their network of electric vehicles grows, there needs to be room for the network to grow alongside the business.
SOLUTION
As part of the initial phase of chargepoint installation, Collins opted for two 240kW UltraCharge units, both fitted with dual CCS2 charging cables to provide 4 ultra-rapid chargepoints for use by their HGV fleet.
In order to best meet the needs of these vehicles, each unit has been fitted with bespoke extended 7m cables, allowing one side to be ducted underground. This design allows for the lorries to pull up easily in a forecourt-type layout, creating a more efficient and convenient charging system for large commercial vehicles.
BENEFIT
Thanks to the sophisticated hardware provided by Rolec EV, Collins Earthworks are able to support the charging of their eHGV fleet seamlessly as they begin their adoption of clean energy vehicles. Something that has also aided them in meeting their environmental goals and desire to reduce their carbon output.
Additionally, this initial phase of chargepoint installation lays out the blueprint for the further introduction of zero emission vehicles as they embark on their transition away from fossil-fuel dependence.
Josh Holstead, Business Development Manager at Rolec EV and DC project lead, commented:
“Supporting projects like this is always commendable and this initiative is no different; providing another brilliant example of Rolec's capability to deliver purpose-built, turnkey solutions tailored to any environment or unique setup requirements.”
Jack Cave, Director at Collins Earthworks, added:
"We are proud to be on the electromobility journey moving towards a Greener Future. With the help, guidance, and support from the team at Rolec, the installation of the HGV EV Chargers ensures we are continuing to reduce our carbon footprint!"
Collins Earthworks
