FRAIKIN FLEET AUDIT POWERS WILSON JAMES’ FIRST ELECTRIC HGV

NEWS SUMMARY:

• Wilson James has introduced its first-ever electric HGV – a 26-tonne DAF XD Electric supplied on a five-year, full-service contract hire deal
• The vehicle was specified following a detailed Fraikin fleet audit, ensuring a seamless transition from a similar diesel model
• The new rigid is backed by Fraikin's nationwide FleetCare maintenance network, which includes EV-trained technicians for on-site and roadside support

Based within its Heathrow Logistics operation, the electric HGV will transport construction materials from Wilson James’ consolidation centre to projects across the airport estate, supporting efficient and coordinated deliveries. Replacing a similar existing diesel truck, the new DAF was selected following a comprehensive operational audit conducted by Fraikin, which ensured it was the right fit for the customer's requirements.

Marta Horawska, HLI Operations Lead Manager, Wilson James, says: “Reducing emissions across our business is a key priority. Introducing this electric HGV is another practical step towards that goal. Collaboration has been central to the project, with Fraikin working closely with us throughout the transition.

“By utilising Fraikin’s industry expertise and alternative-fuel experience, with our understanding of what we need as a business we’ve been able to introduce a vehicle that supports our sustainability ambitions while continuing to meet daily demands as part of a busy logistics fleet.”

Electrification built around operational requirements

As part of the consultation, Fraikin assessed the full scope of Wilson James’ operation, including payload demands, shift patterns, annual mileage and charging infrastructure, to build a detailed picture of the company’s essential needs.

Fraikin Regional Sales Manager, Mark Bunker, also spent time on site with drivers and staff to gain a first-hand understanding of day-to-day requirements, to ensure that the vehicle specification was perfectly tailored to the expected workload.

“It was important to partner with an expert that understood both the technology and our workflow,” adds Horawska. “Fraikin’s advice helped us navigate the entire journey, from the initial conversations on vehicle and specification selection, right through to understanding charging infrastructure. The result is a solution specifically designed to our operation.”

Full-service support included as standard

The new truck has been supplied with all servicing, repairs, road fund licencing, regular safety inspections, annual MOT testing, tyre management, roadside assistance and 24/7, 365 customer support – creating a full-service offering from Fraikin that guarantees peace of mind.

Wilson James also benefits from Fraikin’s full suite of MYSMARTFLEET connected technologies, including real-time data and analysis on metrics such as distance travelled, driving efficiency and driver behaviour. While through the company’s maintenance portal, FRAIKinVIEW, Wilson James can also access accurate predictive maintenance scheduling, with the ability to monitor and track all work as it’s carried out.

The DAF rigid is supported by Fraikin’s FleetCare maintenance network, which is backed by a nationwide team of skilled Mobile Technicians operating from fully equipped vans. This service includes level three electric vehicle (EV) trained technicians, providing on-site and roadside repairs, ensuring faster response times, minimal disruption, and greater confidence in fleet reliability and compliance.

“This project has been built on a close working partnership with Wilson James from day one, with both teams sharing knowledge and expertise throughout the process,” adds Bunker. “We look forward to continuing to support the business as it develops its EV fleet, whilst helping to meet any sustainability ambitions it sets in the years ahead.”

Wilson James is a trusted leader in delivering complex, integrated services across a diverse range of industries in the UK and beyond. For over 35 years it has created safe, secure, and logistically efficient workplaces based on a strong foundation of consistent, resilient service delivery. Operating across complex sectors and highly regulated environments, Wilson James has built a reputation for innovation, integrity, and operational excellence, underpinned by a people-focused philosophy that prioritises clients, colleagues, and communities.