Voltempo Developing Cabless Autonomous Electric Lorry for UK Roads
UK electric vehicle specialist Voltempo is developing a cabless autonomous electric lorry designed to increase freight capacity while reducing vehicle weight and aerodynamic drag.
The prototype measures 15.6 metres in length and uses a five-axle configuration with a 42-tonne capacity. By removing the conventional driver’s cab, Voltempo is redesigning the vehicle around autonomous operation and zero-emission freight transport.
The company describes the concept as a “smart trailer”, with the architecture intended to maximise available space while reducing the mass associated with a conventional tractor unit.
Cabless design increases payload and cargo space
Removing the driver’s cab could eliminate around two tonnes of vehicle weight. A conventional electric articulated tractor and trailer can weigh approximately 19 tonnes when empty, whereas the new design is expected to have an unladen mass of 10-12 tonnes.
As a result, the architecture could provide around 15% more cargo space and increase usable payload by five to seven tonnes. Moreover, the streamlined structure is designed to reduce aerodynamic drag, which could help improve the vehicle’s electric range.
Rather than adapting a conventional diesel truck architecture, Voltempo is developing a vehicle specifically for autonomous operation. Therefore, the design focuses on freight capacity, efficiency, and zero-emission transport rather than accommodating a driver.
The physical construction will be carried out by Berkeley Coachworks, which specialises in lightweight composite structures. Meanwhile, an established commercial vehicle manufacturer will provide the electric drivetrain.
Voltempo says major European truck manufacturers have agreed to approve the prototype as an official vehicle classification. The initial build is scheduled for completion by September 2027, with testing expected to begin shortly afterwards at a dedicated track in South Wales.
Autonomous freight targets UK logistics routes
The UK’s Automated Vehicles Act 2024 provides a legal framework for the deployment of automated vehicles on public roads. Consequently, the legislation could support the transition from controlled testing to wider autonomous freight trials.
Voltempo initially plans to target hub-to-hub motorway operations and short-distance intermodal routes connecting ports with logistics centres. These environments offer relatively predictable routes and operating conditions, making them suitable for early deployment of autonomous freight.
Furthermore, autonomous operation could enable freight fleets to operate for longer periods without the restrictions imposed by conventional driver schedules. The company, therefore, expects the technology to improve asset utilisation across logistics networks.
Electric automation addresses freight challenges
The development comes as the road freight industry faces pressure from both labour shortages and the transition toward lower-emission transport.
The sector could lose more than 150,000 drivers to retirement over the next decade, creating additional pressure on logistics operators. Autonomous vehicles could help address part of that workforce challenge while supporting longer operating schedules.
Voltempo projects that the technology could reduce overall operating costs by between 30% and 45%. However, the commercial impact will depend on factors including vehicle reliability, regulatory approval, infrastructure requirements, and the economics of autonomous fleet deployment.
Production is expected to begin in late 2027, with deliveries targeted for mid-2028. If the development remains on schedule, the project could provide a new model for electric and autonomous heavy goods transport in the UK.