Sunswap has announced groundbreaking results from their recent trials of the Endurance battery and electric transport refrigeration unit (TRU).
The trial data reveals that the Sunswap Endurance will run on free solar energy for three-quarters of the year, equivalent to getting months of free operation. This is the equivalent of running from January to October 12th at no cost, thanks to the impressive 78% solar-powered refrigeration achieved on average across the year. This is even on the most demanding chilled delivery routes with frequent door openings.
The trial results prove the immense potential of solar energy in keeping cargo cool throughout the year. During the warmest months, solar power provides up to 98% of the TRU’s energy needs, while still contributing a significant 24% during the coldest months. Remarkably, the average daily charge time for the electric TRU in winter is just 17 minutes, highlighting the system’s efficiency.
During the warmest months, solar power provides up to 98% of the TRU’s energy needs, while still contributing a significant 24% during the coldest months. Remarkably, the average daily charge time for the electric TRU in winter is just 17 minutes, highlighting the system’s efficiency.
Sunswap’s Endurance TRU offers several key advantages for operators looking to harness solar power in the cold chain:
1. Free clean energy: By utilising solar power, operators can significantly reduce the cost and time required for charging the battery from the mains.
2. Maximum cost efficiency: Solar energy not only decreases the size and cost of batteries but also minimizes the demand for mains charging, leading to substantial overall cost reductions.
3. Range extender: Solar energy acts as a range extender, working in perfect synergy with cold chain transport. As sunshine increases, more solar energy becomes available to counteract the increased energy demand for cooling.
Sunswap’s extensive trials, conducted with 22 customers and backed by a data-driven approach, demonstrate the significant potential of solar energy in powering refrigerated transport, even in the most challenging conditions. The company’s analysis, supported by a decade of weather data, further validates the viability of their battery and solar-powered TRU.
Solar panels also bring additional benefits over proposed solutions like Axle Regeneration or Power Take off systems connected to the tractor unit’s alternator. These options rely on a tractor unit and reduce fuel economy and increase diesel costs. Plus, when operators move to electric tractor units will significantly reduce the range.
As businesses increasingly prioritise sustainability and cost-effectiveness in their cold chain operations, Sunswap’s Endurance TRU offers a truly viable solution. By harnessing the power of the sun, operators can significantly reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint while ensuring consistent performance across seasons.
For more information on how Sunswap’s battery and solar-powered transport refrigeration can enhance your fleet’s sustainability and cost-effectiveness, please visit [company website or contact information].
