Blakemore Logistics has introduced hybrid refrigeration units to 13 of its trailers to significantly reduce its vehicle emissions.
The business has collaborated with Thermo King to become one of the first companies in the UK to fit the new hybrid refrigeration technology to 13 of its Gray & Adams trailer units.
The Thermo King SLXi is the first hybrid unit on the market, offering the benefits of both diesel and electric power.
To ensure the units are as efficient as possible, the business worked in partnership with trailer manufacturers Gray & Adams to design and install BlueSeal air curtains; designed to improve temperature regulation during regular unloading, thus reducing food wastage.
The use of the new trailer units will positively impact on fleet efficiency with a much longer operating life and the ability to carry a greater weight of produce significantly reducing the carbon footprint of the fleet. Additionally, the tractor units used throughout the day can be reutilised at night to pull double deck trunkers, adding further fleet efficiency savings.
Blakemore Logistics Compliance Manager Dave Higgs said: “The purchase of the hybrid technology together with the trailer re-design in collaboration with Gray & Adams further demonstrates Blakemore Logistics’ commitment to responsible business. The hybrid trailer units cut emissions by over 90% and will enable us to deliver into restricted emission zones with ease.
“In addition, lower engine operating hours will mean less frequent maintenance, providing further cost savings and extending the life of the trailer units.”
Thermo King Sales Manager Stephen Williams commented: “For years we have been working with retail and distribution customers to address noise and engine emissions concerns during deliveries in urban areas and we developed a number of solutions that help them address these concerns.
“SLXi Hybrid is a trailer refrigeration unit combining technologies from Thermo King and Frigoblock, which allows it to operate in zero-emission electric mode and give Blakemore Logistics easier access to restricted, low-emission urban areas. The standard connectivity and geo-location feature automatically switches the power between the diesel and electric mode as required lowering their environmental footprint and operating costs at the same time.”
Gray & Adams Doncaster Sales Director Andrew Brown added: “Gray & Adams is proud of the strong partnership we have with Blakemore Logistics and the new urban trailer and Mercedes Benz Econic are great additions to their fleet, which focuses on improved sustainability and reduced environmental impact. We look forward to seeing them on the road and working with the Blakemore team to ensure we continue to deliver bespoke best-in-class products and services to their business.”
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