BUSINESS AND TRAINING |
INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN |
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predominantly from Europe , adhere to international automotive standards , with a minimum five-year warranty as a baseline .
The environmental benefits of solarpowered refrigeration systems are unequivocal . The elimination of diesel usage drastically reduces carbon emissions , aligning with the global push for greener practices .
As with any technology , solar-powered refrigeration systems have limitations . Battery sizing , rate constraints , and limited roof space for solar panels in smaller trucks are identified challenges . To address these , NextDrive customises designs to minimise damage risks and optimise efficiency . Hurter acknowledges ongoing technological advancements , emphasising the evolution of battery capacity and solar panel efficiency over the past six years .
Hurter believes that in time all technological challenges will be overcome . " As manufacturers of batteries , we ' ve witnessed remarkable progress , especially in battery capacity . Over the past six years , there ' s been a 40-45 % increase in capacity , with batteries becoming physically smaller . Similarly , solar panels have evolved . We started with 250W ( and we now use 420W , as this is what fits well on the trucks ) though you get up to 600W now . The technology is advancing in the right direction , making it increasingly viable . For smaller units , it ' s already making sense , and we ' re conducting testing on larger trucks to determine feasibility . Given that it ' s a hybrid system , always with diesel as a backup , it ' s about finetuning and conducting proof of concepts to ensure practicality and efficiency ."
NextDrive collaborates with major roleplayers in refrigerated transport – Transfrig , as well as retailers such as ShopRite – which through Transfrig have integrated solar systems into approximately 90 % of its fleet . Each is tailored to unique needs , and it recently assisted Checkers
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to roll out its first fully-electric truck . “ Solar systems power critical components , showcasing substantial savings , including an annual saving of close to R60-million in diesel costs alone for ShopRite ' s fleet ,” explains Hurter .
He notes that on average , customers save 4.8l of diesel each day per trailer , with the return on investment for a typical solar logistics investment being 1.4 years from date of installation , based only on diesel savings .
Given the extent of potential savings , he believes all refrigerated transport will ultimately go solar-powered unless physically unfeasible . " The challenges come into play with larger trucks , around 14m in length , where the battery system ' s cost becomes economically challenging . Capital expenditure on solar systems must align with a sensible return on investment , factoring in financing . Another challenge is the physical weight of batteries ; with larger trucks , it ' s essential to consider weight limits on our roads . The concern is that adding significant weight may require reducing the truck ' s cargo capacity ."
This is an industry still at the commencement of a growth phase . Regarding competition , Hurter acknowledges emerging players in South Africa-based solar logistics , but considers the current landscape a ‘ blue ocean ’, and one in which they have a long head-start . However , he anticipates increased interest and competition due to growing tax incentives , making their approach more compelling .
The solar incentive is contained in section 12B of the Income Tax Act , being a 125 % deductible on business income tax by investing in solar .
This all means that at the moment , the bulk of NextDrive ’ s work consists of retrofitting . Consequently , the company specialises in augmenting various refrigeration systems , retrofitting solutions to serve as backups and eventually becoming
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the primary power source . However , ShopRite has also adopted a standard practice of equipping every new vehicle with its solar system , says Hurter . He adds that successful proof-of-concept trials with Food Lovers Market and in collaboration with Transfrig , have showcased the effectiveness of solar panels in powering three-phase ( diesel-electric-solar ) systems off the grid for a week without diesel usage .
Traditional diesel refrigeration systems are primarily being replaced by silent nitrogen refrigeration systems . Hurter adds that these units have an operating life of up to 12 years with significantly reduced maintenance and operating costs .
A solar and heavy-duty lithium battery system has been designed specifically for the needs of Coca-Cola . The system allows for the double column tail lift to operate independently from the horse , with excess solar power available for pallet jack charging and optional security systems .
NextDrive ’ s in-house manufacturing processes involve design of batteries , assembly and handling all wiring components . While not producing specific solar panels , the company manages wiring components and ensures automotive-rated components for reliability in vehicular applications .
The company envisions a future where technology continues to evolve , making solar-powered solutions increasingly viable . NextDrive ’ s focus remains on expansion , not only within South Africa but also into Africa and potentially Australia . The company sees a promising horizon for growth beyond regional boundaries , especially as the popularity of sustainable solutions continues to rise .
“ We ' ve facilitated the installation of charging stations for electric trucks – a part of our broader effort . We ' ve tackled unique challenges , such as assisting Roto Rooter during load shedding , implementing a
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system that allowed their vehicles to operate seamlessly . On the design front , we ' ve collaborated with Huawei on significant solar system projects , showcasing our capabilities in both implementation and design .
" In addition to our work in the transport sector , we ' ve successfully implemented large-scale battery and solar systems for commercial buildings . This positions us to accommodate future needs for larger facilities , such as warehouses and factories .
" In South Africa , where we receive abundant sunlight – solar energy is a readily available option . Going green aligns with the sustainability trend , and it ' s a strategic move to cut fuel and operational costs . The roof space on trucks , always exposed to sunlight , presents a practical solution ."
Maintaining optimal functionality is crucial for solar-powered refrigeration systems . Hurter highlighted a proactive approach to preventative maintenance , incorporating regular monitoring and inspections . “ Monthly checks and thorough inspections every second month , coupled with continuous cleaning and optimisation of solar panels , contribute to the longevity and efficiency of the systems . The company employs on-site personnel dedicated to the continuous maintenance of solar systems for specific clients , ensuring meticulous care and attention .” CLA
Over the past
six years , there ' s been
a 40-45 % increase in
capacity , with batteries
becoming physically
smaller .
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