In a major leap towards a greener future, Sweden’s forestry industry is gearing up for a revolutionary transformation – the electrification of its road transports. This innovative endeavor, aptly named the TREE Project (Transition to Efficient, Electrified Forestry Transport), is the result of a collaborative partnership between key players in the forestry, transport, and technology sectors. The driving force behind this initiative includes Skogforsk, Scania, and five leading forestry companies, with support from the Swedish Innovation Agency Vinnova through its R&D program FFI, Vehicle Strategic Research and Innovation.
A Green Vision with Solid Backing
The TREE project has garnered substantial support, with a significant investment of 155 million Swedish kronor over three years. Vinnova, recognizing the project’s potential impact, is injecting 67 million kronor through the FFI program, emphasizing the importance of strategic research and innovation in the field of sustainable transportation.
For more details on the TREE project, you can visit Skogforsk’s project page.
The Complexity of Electrifying Forestry Transports
Forestry transports, responsible for nearly 20 percent of Sweden’s road freight, pose unique challenges for electrification. Factors such as the remote harvesting locations, the weight and robustness of vehicles, and the demanding external environment make this sector particularly complex. However, the TREE project embraces this complexity as it strives to revolutionize the forestry industry.
Meet the Visionary Leader: Anna Pernestål
At the helm of this initiative is Anna Pernestål, the Project Leader for TREE. With a deep commitment to sustainability and a wealth of experience in forestry research, Anna is spearheading the project, guiding it towards its ambitious goals.
“Collaboration is the cornerstone of our efforts. We believe that by working together with industry leaders, startups, and research institutions, we can overcome the challenges and pave the way for a more sustainable future,” says Anna Pernestål.
Goals and Impact
The overarching goal of the TREE project is to ensure that 50 percent of new trucks purchased by the forestry industry are electrified by the year 2030. This bold initiative could potentially lead to a reduction of approximately 260,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year, according to estimates by Skogforsk.
Collaboration: The Key to Success
At the heart of this electrification journey is collaboration. The project brings together a diverse range of participants, including forestry companies, technology firms, transport companies, and research institutions. This collaborative spirit extends beyond traditional boundaries, emphasizing a systemic approach to address the intricate challenges posed by forestry transports.
Scania’s Integral Role
Leading the charge in technological advancements, Scania plays a pivotal role in the project. The company not only contributes equipment for off-grid vehicle charging but also provides technical solutions enabling electric operation, even on the trailers of the vehicles. Scania’s extensive knowledge and commitment to electric vehicles make them a valuable partner in driving this sustainable transition.
Welcoming Nimbnet
A new player in the industry is Nimbnet, a startup charge point operator committed to creating a robust charging infrastructure for heavy duty vehicles. With upcoming charging stations strategically positioned in key locations within the study, Nimbnet plays a crucial role in facilitating the electrification of forestry transports.
Looking Ahead: Demonstrators and Systemic Thinking
As part of the TREE project, a system demonstrator will be deployed across seven sites, spanning from Småland to Västerbotten. These sites will serve as proving grounds for electric vehicles, showcasing various charging infrastructure and logistical support systems. The emphasis on demonstration, knowledge building, overall system understanding, and the development of business models highlights the project’s holistic approach.
Join the Green Revolution
The electrification of forestry transports is not just a project; it’s a commitment to a sustainable future. By visiting the TREE project page, you can stay updated on the progress and learn more about how this collaborative effort is shaping the future of forestry transport in Sweden.
Sweden’s forestry industry is taking a bold step towards a greener tomorrow, and the TREE project is at the forefront of this transformative journey. Join us in supporting sustainable innovation and the electrification of forestry transports – a crucial step in building a more eco-friendly and resilient future.