UK cold chain operator Chiltern Distribution has ordered Sunswap Endurance electric refrigeration units for its multi-temperature fleet. The units will be fitted to SOR trailers from the Reefer Group and supplied under a long-term hire agreement with TIP Group.
Endurance charges from standard shore power available at most temperature-controlled depots, while trailer-mounted solar panels extend operating range and reduce costs. Drivers using the system have reported lower noise levels during overnight and residential deliveries, including early-morning pharmaceutical deliveries.
The system provides asset performance data to support planned maintenance and temperature compliance records for each journey. Chiltern, which holds BRC AA accreditation and operates to a 99.5% on-time delivery standard, also requires audit-ready documentation for pharmaceutical customers.
Sunswap said operators using Endurance have achieved reductions of up to 81% in refrigeration operating costs compared with diesel systems. The company describes Endurance as a zero-emission refrigerated trailer system.
Mike Furnival, Managing Director of TIP, said: “TIP is seeing growing demand from operators looking to adopt next-generation refrigerated trailer technology in a flexible and cost-efficient way. Our agreement with Chiltern Distribution demonstrates how long-term leasing can enable customers to access innovative low and zero emission solutions without the need for significant upfront capital investment.”
