Revolutionising Road Haulage with the Bulldog e-Trailer
Electrogenic, a leader in electric vehicle (EV) innovation, has joined forces with Berkeley Coachworks in a partnership set to transform the future of heavy goods vehicle (HGV) transport.
Their collaboration focuses on the Bulldog carbon-fibre e-Trailer, a range-extending solution designed to redefine long-haul efficiency in an era where zero-emission freight is fast becoming a necessity.
This ground-breaking project sits within the UK government-backed eFreight 2030 consortium, part of the Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstration programme.
Funded by the Department for Transport and delivered in partnership with Innovate UK, the consortium is chaired by former Business Secretary Sir Vince Cable. Its mission is clear: to shape a low-carbon future for the UK’s haulage industry.
More Than Just a Trailer
While trailers have traditionally been passive cargo carriers, the Bulldog e-Trailer reimagines their role. This lightweight carbon-fibre structure is powered by a 180kWh onboard battery pack and integrated with Electrogenic’s proprietary Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) system, EG-OS. The result is a trailer that can extend an electric HGV’s range by an impressive 50%, without any payload penalty.
The aerodynamic advantage is equally striking. Formula 1-inspired ground-effect technology reduces drag, while the trailer’s floor is built from a sustainable wool-composite material that is both durable and lightweight. This blend of advanced engineering and eco-conscious design reflects the forward-thinking approach both companies bring to the table.
Martin Rees, Chairman of Berkeley Coachworks, commented: “The venture between Berkeley and Electrogenic represents the perfect synergy of two uniquely innovative businesses. Together, we are pioneering a lightweight battery system that will redefine efficiency and sustainability in the semi-trailer sector.”
The Brain Behind the Innovation
At the heart of this project is Electrogenic’s EG-OS control system. Developed entirely in-house, EG-OS offers unmatched flexibility, allowing vehicle manufacturers to fine-tune performance characteristics, drive modes, and energy optimisation without compromise. Its adaptability makes it ideal for rapid prototyping and precision engineering.
This technology doesn’t just apply to the Bulldog e-Trailer. EG-OS is already powering solutions for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and defence applications, demonstrating its robustness across demanding environments.
Steve Drummond, CEO of Electrogenic, explained: “We’re delighted to announce this partnership with Berkeley Coachworks, and to help supercharge the development of its Bulldog carbon-fibre e-Trailer. We’re proud to be contributing to the project, and to be playing our part in the vital drive towards the decarbonisation of road haulage.”
Driving Industry Transformation
The Bulldog e-Trailer is one element of a broader vision. The eFreight 2030 consortium brings together HGV fleet operators, vehicle manufacturers, battery producers, energy providers, data analytics firms, and industry bodies.
Established in 2022, the group aims for widescale diesel-to-electric conversion by 2030 and full sector electrification by 2035.
By funding real-world demonstrations of zero-emission freight technology, the programme is addressing infrastructure, vehicle performance, and operational integration simultaneously. The Bulldog e-Trailer stands as a prime example of this holistic approach.
Beyond Freight
While this project highlights Electrogenic’s cutting-edge capabilities, the company’s influence extends well beyond haulage. Known for its high-quality, reversible EV conversions of iconic classic cars such as the Land Rover Defender, Jaguar E-Type, Porsche 911, and DeLorean DMC-12, Electrogenic also delivers turn-key EV powertrains to automotive manufacturers worldwide.
Its ‘drop-in’ conversion kits, designed for easy installation without altering the original vehicle structure, are installed through a growing global dealer network. Each kit incorporates CCS rapid charging, 6.6kW AC charging, and regenerative braking options.
Electrogenic’s manufacturing operations in Oxford, UK, encompass microprocessor design, vehicle body control, digital dashboards, bespoke gearboxes, and high-density battery pack systems. This in-house approach ensures quality, flexibility, and innovation across all its projects.
A Future Built on Innovation and Sustainability
The Bulldog e-Trailer represents more than a single technological leap – it’s a statement of intent for the road freight industry. By combining ultra-lightweight materials, advanced aerodynamics, and intelligent software, Electrogenic and Berkeley Coachworks are setting new benchmarks for efficiency and sustainability.
Their work within the eFreight 2030 framework could accelerate the adoption of electric HGVs, paving the way for a future where clean, cost-effective, and high-performance freight transport becomes the industry standard.
With the government, industry leaders, and innovative companies aligned, the UK’s zero-emission haulage revolution is shifting from aspiration to reality. And with the Bulldog e-Trailer at the forefront, the road ahead looks not only cleaner but also smarter.
