An EU-wide research initiative set to revolutionise battery electric truck charging in the EU is now underway, backed by €10m funding from the Horizon Europe research programme.

Image credit: Rocsys

Led by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, the project features real-life demonstrations of charging hubs with the aim to establish a comprehensive European charging network for electric trucks by 2030.

The consortium, comprising 19 leading European companies, universities and research centres, is working to address the critical challenges of sustainable heavy-duty transport.

The MACBETH (Multipoint megAwatt Charging for Battery Electric Truck Hubs) project aims to develop and demonstrate cutting-edge solutions for megawatt charging systems (MCS) in multi-user charging hubs, creating a robust and efficient charging network in Europe.

Two large-scale demonstration pilots will test hybrid charging stations serving multiple users including heavy- and medium-duty vehicles in logistics transport, as well as light-duty private vehicles, and conduct comprehensive research into the charging hub design, safety and operational efficiency.

One of the project partners is the Finnish company Kempower, which designs and manufactures fast-charging solutions for electric vehicles.

“We’re bringing crucial equipment and expertise to the table. Currently, megawatt charging infrastructure is very rare in Europe, and our technologies will be key to bridging this critical gap,” said Ville Naumanen, research director from Kempower.

The project is also testing a robotised charging arm, developed by Netherlands-based Rocsys, that could revolutionise the charging process by increasing the safety in high-power charging systems. The firm’s goal is to create a solution where drivers can rest while the robot handles the charging, potentially improving overall logistics efficiency.

“Currently, drivers must exit their vehicles, handle heavy charging cables, and interrupt their break time. By automating the charging process, we’re addressing critical ergonomic, operational and safety challenges in electric heavy-duty transport,” said Joost van der Weijde from Rocsys.

The project started February 2025 and will run until January 2029 .

“The MACBETH project is not just about technological innovation, rather it prepares new charging solutions towards large-scale deployment,” said research professor Mikko Pihlatie from VTT. “It is an important step towards reimagining the entire ecosystem of electric transport, from charging infrastructure to logistics operations.”