A REDDITCH supply chain specialist now has 100 per cent fully electric trailers having invested in innovative Eco-Drive technology.
The equipment was fitted to the tractor units operating in the Oakland Distribution transport fleet.
Oakland International has undertaken a major investment into the Carrier Transicold’s technology which converts power from the truck’s own engine into electricity.
The company’s distribution director Martin Pearson said the move was just one in a range of schemes which would ensure the firm’s continued growth and came in addition to long-term fleet investment.
“Having held several trials with Carrier Transicold, it offered a real benefit to move in this direction, not simply for fuel savings, but it also delivered sustainability benefits through further reductions in our carbon footprint.
“As of March 2023 we are now 100 per cent electric when operating our refrigerated trailers to deliver customers’ chilled and frozen goods.”
Carrier Transicold’s Eco-Drive units have both been retrofitted to the company’s existing Renault tractor units, as well as mounted to new vehicles entering the fleet.
The system uses a hydraulic pump connected to the truck engine’s power take-off – this drives a generator which delivers the electrical power required to run Oakland Distribution’s Vector refrigeration units, improving sustainability through reduced emissions and lower fuel requirements.
Scott Dargan, UK and Northern Europe managing director of Carrier Transicold added: “We are delighted Oakland Distribution has invested in our Eco-Drive technology, which allows the business to both retrofit their existing vehicles, and fit new tractor units entering service with the system.”
