MAN eTGX tractors deliver for John G Russell

John G Russell (Transport) Ltd has become the first Scottish operator to introduce MAN’s battery‑electric eTGX tractors into service.

Founded by John Russell, the company’s current chairman, in 1969, John G Russell (Transport) Ltd operates from 14 depots and rail terminals, employs over 740 staff, and manages a fleet comprising over 250 vehicles, 850 trailers and 1,000 intermodal containers. The Russell Group operates continuously throughout the year, serving several of Europe’s largest blue-chip companies.

The three 4×2 tractor units are now working from the Russell Group’s Coatbridge container base, handling daytime container movements and night‑time operations for major contracts.

Fleet engineer Stephen Madden said: “By investing in cutting-edge technologies such as these three all-electric MAN eTGX tractors, we aim to create a future where supply chains are not only highly effective but also environmentally friendly…

“The first of the new vehicles arrived in September 2025. Having worked with MAN’s electric-vehicle specialist, Roger Turnbull, and our local MAN dealership, and having heard their assurances of satisfaction, we enthusiastically put it into service. I’m delighted to report it’s been faultless and has easily exceeded our expectations.”

He continued: “This has been a steep learning curve for us all. Our drivers have consistently praised its performance, and those who initially shied away from it have listened to peers’ positive feedback and now actively want to drive the vehicles themselves. All have returned from a day’s work with a firm smile.”

Two further eTGX tractors joined the fleet at the end of 2025.

Madden said: “Each vehicle is averaging around 400 km per day, which is in line with our fleet average. With our on-site charging facilities, we have no concerns. Overall, it’s been an incredibly positive experience.”

He added that MAN’s support had been “outstanding”.

The eTGX tractors operate at a 42‑tonne GVW and use a 330 kW motor producing 1,150 Nm of torque. Six 80 kWh batteries provide 480 kWh of onboard energy, supported by 375 kW DC charging and CCS connectors on both sides of the cab.

The vehicles feature MAN’s GX High roof sleeper cab, a 3,750 mm wheelbase, and a range of driver‑comfort and safety technologies, including OptiView digital mirrors, climatronic air conditioning, and MAN’s Professional Navigation Media System.

All three vehicles are part of the Government’s ZENFreight initiative, which aims to demonstrate the viability of replacing 40–44‑tonne diesel HGVs with battery‑electric and hydrogen alternatives and to inform future infrastructure planning through real‑world data.

Stephen Madden said: “At the heart of our success is our people. They are our greatest asset, and their dedication reinforces our core values, ensuring we deliver on our promises to our customers every time. Through our environmental policy and sustainability strategy, we have put a number of initiatives in place to tackle CO2 emissions with the aim of being a net zero business by 2040.”

Jan Kohlmeier, managing director of MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd, said: “This represents a significant milestone for both the Russell Group and MAN Truck & Bus UK. I would like to thank all involved, especially Stephen, for their trust in MAN.”

Roger Turnbull, head of EV consultation and sales (UK) at MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd, said: “Working with Stephen and the Russell Group team has been an absolute delight… This was different from anything we’d done before, and, like Stephen, we eagerly awaited the driver feedback and vehicle data.”