KleanDrive, a pioneer in electric repowering for heavy vehicles, has today announced a new partnership with leading fleet, haulage and HGV servicing experts Welch Group.
Together, the two companies will convert Renault D-Series 18-tonne rigids to fully electric power using KleanDrive’s cutting-edge modular drivetrain technology. There will be a pilot with one vehicle and the plan is to convert the entire fleet.
This new collaboration follows hot on the heels of KleanDrive’s 30-vehicle bus repower deal with First Bus and now brings the same innovative approach to the HGV sector.
Under the agreement, KleanDrive will supply its state-of-the-art, plug-and-play e-drivetrain system featuring CATL Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery cells and Voith motors. Welch Group, meanwhile, will handle installation and, where required, full refurbishment of the truck’s chassis, cab and body. The modular system allows rapid integration into existing vehicles, dramatically cutting downtime and eliminating tailpipe emissions.
Importantly diesel components removed during the process are returned to operators for reuse within their legacy fleet, ensuring no waste and extending the life of critical parts.
Joe Tighe, founder of KleanDrive, said: “This is the future of truck repowering. Our modular drivetrain is model-specific and can be fitted in a day. Paired with Welch Group’s expertise, it gives operators a fast, scalable way to transition to zero-emission HGVs – with lower running costs and a smoother, quieter ride for drivers.”
KleanDrive’s powertrain offers up to 352 kWh of usable battery capacity, delivering range and total cost of ownership advantages.
Chris Welch, Managing Director of Welch Group, said: “We’ve been early adopters of electric trucks in the UK, and KleanDrive’s solution just makes sense. It’s simple to fit – two core modules, plug-and-play – and the engineering is excellent. We know how HGVs are really used, and this gives operators a viable, sustainable, and economic way to decarbonise without replacing entire fleets.”
