Gist launches trial of Sunswap ’ s zero-emissions transport refrigeration unit
Logistics specialist Gist has partnered with cleantech engineering firm Sunswap to trial a zero-emission , solar and battery powered transport refrigeration unit ( TRU ) within its temperature controlled distribution fleet .
Sunswap is a start-up business developing electric transport refrigeration technology that utilises energy prediction software , adaptive battery capacity and a solar energy recovery system to help decarbonise refrigerated trailers in the cold chain .
The trial , operating from Gist ’ s Chesterfield depot , forms part of Gist ’ s commitment to explore innovative solutions to reduce carbon emissions , particularly among its distribution fleet . As an industry , the need to explore alternatives is more pressing following
46 FDPP - www . fdpp . co . uk the Government ’ s commitment to reach Net Zero by 2050 and the ban of red diesel use from 1 April 2022 .
Dependent on weather conditions , Sunswap states the solar panels on the Endurance TRU can provide 65 to 80 per cent of the charge needed throughout the year to operate the refrigeration unit , considerably reducing the time and cost to charge . The Endurance is able to operate at 10 per cent of the running costs in comparison to a diesel-powered TRU .
Kate Brown , Gist ’ s Communications and Sustainability director , 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 , Sunswap ’ s CEO , said : “ Sunswap is thrilled to be working with Gist . They 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 .”
www . gistworld . com www . sunswap . co . uk