Chesterfield, UK: Gist is testing Sunswap’s solar and battery-powered truck and trailer fridges.
Sunswap developed the electric refrigeration technology that uses energy prediction software, adaptive battery capacity and a solar energy recovery system to provide carbon free refirgeration.
The trial, operating from Gist’s Chesterfield depot, forms part of Gist’s commitment to explore innovative solutions to reduce carbon emissions.
Dependent on weather conditions, Sunswap says the solar panels on the Endurance fridge can provide 65 to 80% of the charge needed throughout the year to operate the fridge, considerably reducing the time and cost to charge. The Endurance is able to operate at 10% of the running costs in comparison to a diesel-powered fridge.
Kate Brown, communications and sustainability director, Gist, said: “Gist is actively collaborating within the industry to understand new, developing technology that can minimise our impact on the environment. We are always looking to trial new innovations, such as Sunswap’s TRU, as part of our commitment to creating a greener, more efficient distribution fleet.”
Michael Lowe, chief executive, Sunswap, said: “They [Gist] operate one of the largest chilled distribution fleets in the UK and their commitment to reduce their emissions is perfectly aligned with our mission to decarbonise the cold chain.
“With diesel now more expensive for TRUs and emissions targets getting closer, the logistics sector has responded fantastically and is actively looking for innovative solutions to achieve net zero. We are excited to continue our customer deployments and help more fleet operators cut diesel from their temperature-controlled trailer fleet.”
