Bannister Transport Accelerates Toward UK's First Zero-Emission Refrigerated Fleet

Bannister Transport, the Worcestershire-based temperature-controlled logistics specialist, is moving closer to becoming the UK's first operator with a fully electric refrigerated trailer fleet as it takes delivery of Sunswap's zero-emission transport refrigeration technology.

This latest delivery marks a significant milestone in Bannister Transport's two-year plan to replace all diesel-powered refrigeration across its 40-trailer fleet with Sunswap's battery and solar-powered Endurance units, making their fleet 100% Sunswap and fully zero-emission.

The countdown to removing the last diesel refrigeration unit from the Bannister fleet has now begun, with each new Sunswap delivery bringing the company closer to its sustainability goals. Once complete, the full fleet conversion will eliminate 1,760 tonnes of CO2 and 13,600 kg of harmful NOx pollutants over the lifetime of the units - equivalent to removing 419 cars from the road.

Tom Owens, Owner and Managing Director of Bannister Transport, said: "The performance of the Sunswap units already in operation has exceeded our expectations in terms of reliability, run time and cost savings. We're seeing clear evidence that this technology can deliver on its promise, which gives us complete confidence as we move toward becoming the UK's first fully electric refrigerated fleet.

"Our customers are increasingly demanding partners with strong environmental credentials, and our solar-powered refrigerated trailers provide a clear differentiator from competitors. Customers are already taking note of our new solar-powered fleet and recognise we're not just talking about reducing emissions – we're actually delivering it.”

"Combined with our investments in electric trucks and the recent installation of solar panels at our Evesham depot, this puts us years ahead on the journey to full decarbonisation. For temperature-controlled logistics operators, the future is clearly electric, and we're proud to be leading this transition."

Sunswap's zero-emission technology combines advanced battery storage with roof-mounted solar panels that typically provide 80-85% of the energy needed for chilled operations. Using the Sunswap solution, Bannister will maintain their high quality of service and reliability whilst eliminating emissions from their trailers.

Michael Lowe, CEO of Sunswap, commented: "Bannister Transport's commitment to creating the UK's first fully electric refrigerated fleet demonstrates visionary leadership in sustainable logistics. We're thrilled to support their journey as they systematically remove diesel refrigeration from their operations. The data from their existing Endurance units confirms this technology can deliver the reliability and performance needed for demanding delivery cycles while dramatically reducing emissions and costs."

Bannister Transport, established in 1965 in the Vale of Evesham, has evolved from its roots in the fruit and vegetable industry to become a nationally recognised provider of temperature-controlled distribution services. The company's sustainability initiatives align with growing market demand for low-carbon logistics solutions as environmental considerations increasingly influence supplier selection.

About Bannister Transport:

Established in 1965, Bannister Transport is a BRC-accredited specialist in temperature-controlled logistics based in Offenham, Evesham. The company provides nationwide distribution services for temperature-sensitive goods.

About Sunswap:

Sunswap is a British engineering company developing zero-emission transport refrigeration technology. Based in Leatherhead, Surrey, Sunswap has combined advanced battery storage with integrated solar power to create Endurance, a purpose-built electric transport refrigeration unit that eliminates tailpipe emissions while matching or exceeding the performance of traditional diesel units. Following over 30 successful trials with major retailers and logistics companies, Sunswap's technology is now in production, enabling fleet operators to reduce both emissions and operating costs.