10166871Zugbox - Smarter Containers for Zero Emission DeliveriesClosedProcurementInnovate UK**Zugbox -- Smarter Containers for Zero Emission Deliveries** Zugbox Ltd is developing a new type of logistics container designed to reduce emissions from last-mile and suburban delivery. The project will demonstrate how small, modular containers can make freight more efficient, more flexible, and better suited to a world transitioning to zero-emission transport. Unlike traditional parcel delivery systems, which rely on vans travelling door to door, the Zugbox system separates the movement of goods from the movement of vehicles. Pre-loaded containers can be transferred easily between electric vans, cargo bikes, and other clean transport modes. This allows operators to deliver more efficiently, reduce dwell times, and consolidate deliveries for multiple customers in one journey --- all without the need for fixed depots or heavy infrastructure. The containers are designed to be stackable, easy to handle, and secure enough for unattended storage. This opens up new delivery models such as shared microhubs, overnight drop-off, and suburban groupage. It also helps tackle the growing challenge of meeting delivery demand while complying with clean air rules and space constraints in towns and cities. The project will run two live trials to test the technology in real-world conditions. One will focus on dense city centre operations using electric vans. The second will test the containers in a suburban setting using cargo bikes. Both pilots will collect data on delivery performance, emissions savings, and user experience. Digital tracking and environmental modelling will be used to measure the impact of the containers, including carbon reduction and operational efficiency. Local stakeholders will be engaged to explore future use cases, and to understand how this system could support wider net zero logistics goals. Zugbox Ltd has developed the system through earlier design and feasibility projects supported by public innovation funding. This new phase will move the concept out of the workshop and into live operations, paving the way for future commercial deployment across the UK and beyond. This innovation offers a cost-effective, scalable solution to decarbonising freight and delivery, helping businesses and local areas transition to cleaner, more efficient transport models. It aligns with national priorities for sustainable transport and is ready to be tested where it is most needed in the real world. Flex to scope (PCR 24/10/25): 1. For the urban logistics trial we want to include use of Euro6 diesels in addition to EVs 2. For the bike trial we propose to operate this in Glasgow as this enables us to trial warehouse postcode sorting to our container for last mile delivery by bike courier within the project time frame (and will improve the quality of the results). Hi Ayodeji, Thank you for your message regarding the Project Change Request currently under review. Please find below a detailed justification addressing the requested points. 1. Why the Change is Necessary A. Inclusion of Euro VI Diesel Vehicles The inclusion of Euro VI diesel vehicles alongside EVs for the urban logistics trial has been requested by our project client, Russell Logistics, to provide greater fleet flexibility within the limited trial window. While the project’s goal remains centred on zero-emission operations, the short timeframe and the long operational lifespan of vehicles mean that permitting Euro VI use will ensure sufficient vehicle availability and operational resilience. This adjustment also allows us to generate comparative data between electric and clean-diesel performance, strengthening the technical and commercial evidence base for decarbonisation. B. Relocation of Bike Courier Trial to Glasgow We propose to relocate the bike courier element from Ealing to Glasgow, working with our existing subcontractor Russell and their local partner Velo-City. This configuration enables a full demonstration of the “container-to-courier” concept, including postcode-level warehouse sortation and last-mile delivery by bike, all within the current project timeframe. Ealing Council will continue to participate as an observer, allowing the results and lessons from Glasgow to be shared for potential future replication in Ealing. 2. Impacts of the Change Positive Impacts • De-risks the trials by improving operational flexibility and resilience. • Enhances commercial relevance by comparing EV and Euro VI performance. • Allows a more complete and data-rich demonstration of the technology. • Brings an additional local-authority partner (Glasgow City Council) at no extra cost. • Supports stronger engagement with potential end-users such as DPD and FedEx. Negative Impacts No adverse impacts are anticipated. Euro VI use will remain limited to ensure continued alignment with project sustainability objectives. 3. Other Options Considered The principal alternative was to retain the existing plan. However, doing so would create unnecessary operational risk and constrain the quality of outcomes. Deferring or reducing the trial scope was also considered but rejected, as it would delay delivery and reduce impact. The proposed change offers a prudent, cost-neutral adjustment that enhances both feasibility and data quality. 4. Impact on Deliverables, Timescale, Quality and Budget Deliverables: No change. The project will still deliver live demonstrations de-risking the Zugbox container in two real-world logistics environments. Timescale: Unchanged; completion remains scheduled for April 2026. Quality: Significantly improved through wider operational testing and richer datasets. Budget: Unchanged; all amendments will be delivered within existing financial allocations. Summary This amendment represents a practical and risk-reducing refinement that enhances the robustness, transferability, and market relevance of the project outcomes. It will enable a fuller technical and commercial validation of the Zugbox system while maintaining alignment with the Net Zero – Living Tech Trials objectives and without impacting budget or delivery schedule. If you need any further assistance just ask : ) Best, Theo Project Manager | Zugbox Ltd