Tesco has introduced HGV trailers with refrigeration units powered by solar panels.
In collaboration with Marshall Fleet Solutions (MFS), Tesco’s solar-powered trailers will save circa 2,000 litres of diesel and over 5 tonnes of carbon per year.
The HGV fleet is fitted with Marshall’s Titan System which uses power produced by the high powered solar panels and stores electrical energy in long-life lightweight lithium batteries to provide power to the refrigeration unit.
“Our distribution network is one of the largest in the UK and will play an important role in our efforts to become net-zero by 2035,” Tesco fleet engineering manager Cliff Smith said.
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“With our electric HGVs, electric home delivery vans and now solar-powered refrigeration units, Tesco is leading the way in electric haulage innovation, helping to tackle road transport emissions.”
MFS managing director Mark Howell said: “With a significant trailer fleet, the successful use of solar-powered refrigerated trailers within the Tesco distribution operation cannot be underestimated, in terms of its significantly positive environmental impact.
“Both Tesco and MFS share similar sustainability and carbon reduction plans. As a result of MFS’s long association with Tesco as approved suppliers of Thermo King transport refrigeration systems, this initiative builds on the strength of this relationship, whilst helping to deliver on Tesco’s global sustainability goals.”
The news comes after the Big 4 grocer began trialling electric HGVs to deliver goods to its distribution centre in Magor, Wales, as it continues its pledge to become net-zero by 2035.
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