Reading, UK: Gist is trialling two Daf electric refrigerated trucks.
The trial is suported by truck supplier Ford & Slater and Daf Trucks with vehicles based at Gist Hemel for the duration of the trial. The Daf LF is one of two fully electric vehicles Gist is trialling. The second, a Daf CF tractor, is being trialled on routes from its operation in Thatcham.
Daf, through Ford & Slater, which supplies the majority of Gist’s trucks, has provided the 19-tonne rigid and 4×2 tractor for trials. Gist will use the vehicles on a number of routes, including for transporting frozen products.
Kate Brown, Gist’s director of communications and sustainability, said: “Moving to diesel alternatives for ambient HGV vehicles has its challenges, but finding suitable, sustainable alternatives for refrigerated transportation units adds another layer of complexity.
“That’s why we’re delighted to work with Daf to trial its 100% fully electric refrigerated rigid and unit. Our fleet is largely made up of refrigerated vehicles and as we continue to work on reducing our carbon emissions and creating a greener, cleaner environment we hope these trials will demonstrate that using electricity is a viable alternative.”
Laurence Drake, managing director, Daf Trucks said: “As a company, we are committed to developing transport solutions for our customers that can help them deliver on their environmental and sustainability objectives. Having launched our range of zero emission CF and LF Electric trucks last year it is fantastic to see operators using them in regular operation. Working alongside likeminded partners, such as Gist, is really helping to drive the transport industry forward.”
In addition, Gist is also trialling the Volta Zero, a fully electric rigid. In partnership with Marks & Spencer and Volta Trucks, Gist is using the vehicle to support Volta’s product development by providing operational data and feedback.
