EV Magazine November 2023 | Page 59

As a result , companies are experiencing some unorthodox changes , particularly when the automotive sector is experiencing a major revolution in industrial systems and digital functions .

“ Our EV experience has introduced unconventional partnership opportunities in unexpected ways . It prompted us to consider collaboration with electricity suppliers and other businesses for B2B charging solutions , something we never contemplated beforem : says Judd .

“ For example , we ' re engaging with Distribution Network Operators ( DNOs ) to understand our electric capacity , addressing the challenge of charging commercial trucks . These discussions extend beyond charging to innovative ideas like taking lunch breaks at charging stations and using their facilities . We ' re exploring uncharted territories in B2B collaborations that were non-existent in the diesel world .”

With any electrification partnership , views must be aligned . Organisations thrive on the fact that companies in the industry are all dedicated to the same mission . Despite there being minimal alternative solution like Lunaz , Biffa still takes pride in being selective of its partner in this project . So , we asked Judd what the company looks for in a strategic partner .

“ Firstly , a partner needs to demonstrate its willingness to engage to make a positive difference , built on trust , shared goals and mutual growth . We want to grow with each other and that is exactly what Lunaz has set out to achieve ,” says Judd .

Biffa entered into partnership with Lunaz Applied Technologies – a sister of its Lunaz Design business – to tackle the electrification challenge with the vehicles it already owns . The partners are taking a sustainable approach to this by leveraging ICE conversion to transform its combustionpowered bin lorries into electrified trucks .

This collaboration involves replacing the traditional diesel engines of Biffa ’ s trucks with electric power architecture to renew their lifespan , but also decarbonise them . Lunaz is known for designing electric propulsion systems for classic car models and has put these learnings into practice in a revolutionary feat of electrical engineering .

“ They are extremely keen to listen to our advice , working collaboratively with our front-line operation team , being on hand to support in any way they can . It helps that the quality of their work is outstanding - our drivers have been extremely impressed with the vehicles and Lunaz has ensured they completely understand them as well .”

It ’ s to be expected that more innovative partnerships like this will appear in the industry . With much of the attention of passenger-electric cars , there is still a large number of alternative vehicles to source for industrial applications and the leisure and lifestyle sector . While EV growth is paramount , the industry is now able to shift its focus to more complex tasks , such as electrifying service vehicles and ensuring that necessary industries are decarbonised .

EVMAGAZINE . COM [ Nov 2023 ] 59