Dragonfly Energy powers Pepsi deliveries with new liftgate battery systems
Dragonfly Energy is now a provider of lithium-based liftgate power solutions for Refreshment Services Pepsi, a privately held independent bottler and distributor of Pepsi-Cola products. With distribution centers across the U.S., Refreshment Services Pepsi will begin integrating the company's Battle Born Batteries products into their fleet to power liftgate operations. This shift to lithium-ion technology offers Refreshment Services Pepsi cost savings and environmental advantages over lead-acid batteries.
“Liftgates, though seemingly small, can greatly impact our business in terms of cost, sustainability, and productivity,” said William Funk, delivery supervisor at Refreshment Services Pepsi. “Lead-acid batteries have always presented challenges for us. Dragonfly Energy's lithium solution is not only better for the environment but also helps reduce costs.”
By using Dragonfly Energy’s Battle Born Batteries, Refreshment Services Pepsi expects to save fuel since the truck engine can be turned off at every stop without affecting the liftgate's operation. This eliminates the need to idle the engine in order to maintain battery power for the liftgate, resulting in cost reductions and environmental benefits.
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Addressing several challenges associated with lead-acid batteries, Dragonfly Energy says the lithium iron phosphate-based Battle Born Batteries have shown in tests that they outperform lead-acid batteries with more liftgate cycles, a longer lifespan, and lower overall costs due to fewer maintenance requirements and a reduced replacement frequency. According to a whitepaper study conducted by Dragonfly Energy, lithium batteries outperform lead-acid batteries by 54% in cycle life, requiring fewer replacements over time and thereby decreasing costs in materials, labor, and vehicle downtime.
“Partnering with Refreshment Services Pepsi signifies another advancement for Dragonfly Energy as we further our expansion within the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry,” said Wade Seaburg, chief revenue officer for Dragonfly Energy. “Our Battle Born Batteries products in liftgate applications offer reliability, cost savings, and environmental benefits. As more companies in the industry realize these advantages, Dragonfly Energy is poised and ready to lead the way with the benefits of lithium technology.”
Refreshment Services Pepsi will begin outfitting trucks with Dragonfly Energy’s liftgate power system in late July at the company’s Terre Haute, Indiana, facility.
