DFDS integrates Sunswap’s zero-emission TRUs

International logistics firm DFDS is integrating Sunswap’s zero-emission transport refrigeration units (TRUs) into its logistics fleet after conducting a successful trial run earlier this year, according to the companies.

Sunswap provides an alternative to diesel-powered TRUs as the U.K.’s only dedicated, fully electric TRU manufacturer with the mission of decarbonizing the cold chain.

“Finding innovative solutions to reduce emissions while improving our customer offering is a top priority for our cold chain service and DFDS as a whole,” said Matt O’Dell, U.K. managing director of cold chain at DFDS Logistics Services. “That said, we’re very excited about the potential of Sunswap, which offers the only purpose-built, fully electric transport-refrigerated unit on the market.

“Earlier this year we trialed a unit in our U.K. operation. We are thrilled with the results of the trial and excited to integrate Sunswap zero-emission TRUs into our fleet, which should enter our service within the next year. This is a significant step in building our capability to achieve climate neutrality.

“DFDS is pioneering new green technologies throughout its operations, in line with a commitment to reduce emissions by 45% by 2030 and to ultimately achieve climate neutrality as an organization.”

See also: DFDS to add Sunswap TRU

In the trial, the Sunswap TRU utilized a combination of solar and battery power to ensure frozen produce was successfully transported across the U.K., the cleantech company said. On one of DFDS’s longest routes, the TRU provided 22 hours of frozen cooling time on a single charge over the course of two days. Depending on conditions, the solar panels typically can provide 65-100% of the charge needed to operate the refrigeration unit, reducing reliance on grid charging and costs. During the deployment, the average time to fully charge the TRU was 80 minutes.

The successful partnership has demonstrated that an environmentally friendly and operationally capable alternative to diesel is possible, Sunswap said. Based on findings from the deployment, it was established that a 10-year period of Sunswap TRU usage would amount to a 25-35% average cost of ownership saving in comparison to operating a diesel TRU.

“Seeing Sunswap’s TRU integrate seamlessly in DFDS’s fleet earlier this year was a monumental moment for us and [this] news confirms that we have an exciting road ahead. Sunswap was founded as, despite the willingness of businesses operating in the cold chain, there has previously been a lack of viable transport refrigeration alternatives to diesel.

“Transport refrigeration is seen as a significant barrier to the U.K. government’s target to bring all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050. It has been fantastic to work with the team at DFDS who are passionate about removing emissions from the cold chain and willing to support their vision with action.

“As the industry continues to step-up, we will work as fast as we can to meet the demand for our tried and tested, cost-effective, sustainable transport refrigeration solution.”