Investing in more sustainable logistics processes
DistriFresh is actively working to make its logistics processes more sustainable. A key step in this journey is the introduction of refrigerated trailers with fully electric cooling units. As a result, the trailers operate 100% emission-free. The first two of these innovative refrigerated trailers took to the road in July 2019.
Leon Cuypers, Supply Chain Director Vion/DistriFresh:
“The use of refrigerated trailers with 100% electrically powered cooling units is still relatively unique in the Netherlands. Only a limited number of companies are currently deploying them. We have chosen to take this step now. By introducing these trailers, we are anticipating future emission regulations and the growing demand for clean urban deliveries. The deployment of fully electrically cooled trailers by DistriFresh aligns perfectly with Vion’s Corporate Social Responsibility policy.”
Emission-free operation
The trailers’ cooling units are fully electrically powered, meaning they do not consume diesel. As a result, the trailers operate entirely emission-free, producing no CO₂, soot or particulate matter. The electricity required for cooling is generated through recovered braking energy. When the trailer slows down, a specially designed axle captures energy. The more the trailer decelerates, the more energy is generated.
Because no diesel is used, approximately 30 litres of diesel can be saved per trailer each day. An additional benefit is the low noise level; electrically cooled trailers operate much more quietly than conventional units.
A first step
“The new refrigerated trailers represent a first step towards a more sustainable logistics process,” Cuypers added. “We will closely monitor the performance of the trailers so that we can assess whether to further expand the number of electrically cooled trailers in the coming years.”