The Sunswap Difference: What separates Endurance from hybrid and diesel retrofit transport refrigeration units?

As the cold chain industry evolves, many companies claim to offer sustainable refrigeration solutions. However, Sunswap's Endurance stands apart as a truly innovative, zero-emission transport refrigeration unit (TRU).

Sunswap Endurance is a purpose-built, battery and solar-powered transport refrigeration unit designed to match or exceed the performance of diesel units while significantly reducing environmental impact. With dozens of trials under its belt, here are the key elements that set Endurance apart from systems that adapt legacy diesel technology or apply retro-fit solutions to traditional TRUs.

Fully electric and autonomous

Unlike other refrigeration units that also use electricity, Endurance is a true zero direct emission solution. It doesn't rely on external power sources that require diesel fuel, such as the truck engine delivering power via a regenerative axle or power take-off system.

These adaptations add the extra weight of two power sources (both a diesel engine and batteries). There are also hidden inefficiencies between transferring energy between systems - why does this matter to operators? It means emission reduction and cost efficiency are heavily compromised. Whilst some product names may start with "e-" or use the colour green, it's important to realise when a significant amount of diesel is still being burned to power a transport fridge.

The autonomy of Sunswap Endurance offers several advantages:

• No energy loss from hybrid systems or power transfer inefficiencies
• No additional drag or fuel consumption for the truck
• Ideal for future electric trucks, as it won't impact their driving range
• Can run independently in trailer parks or during driver breaks, extending warehouse capacity

Sustainable thinking throughout

Sunswap's solar and battery-powered technology reduces the overall lifetime impact of refrigerated transport by between 79% and 93% compared to diesel. This figure comes from research from Cenex who carried out a life-cycle assessment. Here is how we have considered sustainability across our system.

Operational sustainability: The integration of solar panels significantly reduces the need for grid charging, further lowering the carbon footprint during use.

Longevity: Endurance is built to last, with a design life of over 10 years, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Efficiency: By optimising every aspect of the system, from the fridge to the battery management, we're ensuring that we get the most out of every Watt of energy.

Weight: Endurance's charger options and modular battery mean there's a configuration to suit your specific needs according to your delivery cycles. This versatility makes a real difference, as an Endurance TRU with the smallest battery pack option weighs around 10-20% less than diesel equivalents with their smallest fuel tank, saving weight and reducing cost.

Real-world benefits of electric transport refrigeration

By choosing Sunswap Endurance, operators can experience significant advantages.

Reduced emissions and environmental impact: Endurance eliminates direct CO2 emissions from refrigeration, and completely reduces harmful pollutants like NOx and particulate matter. There is no diesel burnt and no direct emissions. It's that simple.

Lower costs: Operators can reduce operational costs by up to 81% compared to diesel units. This is makes Endurance an attractive option for companies looking to improve their bottom line while reducing their environmental impact.

Future-proof your fleet: Companies can meet and exceed upcoming emissions regulations, align with corporate sustainability goals, and attract environmentally conscious customers and partners. This forward-thinking approach ensures that investments made today will continue to pay dividends in the evolving landscape of sustainable logistics.

These benefits aren't just theoretical. Our customers have experienced real-world success with Endurance. DFDS Logistics achieved 22 hours of cooling on a single charge. Tesco's trial demonstrated Endurance's capability to maintain multiple temperature zones efficiently. Müller Milk & Ingredients ran entirely on solar power throughout their two-week trial.

Sunswap's mission to decarbonise the cold chain is grounded in efficiency and genuine sustainability, breaking free from legacy technology constraints. We offer a solution without hidden caveats or compromises, designed to deliver both environmental and economic benefits.

Ready to transform your refrigerated transport operations? To receive more information on Sunswap technology and how it can meet the needs of your business, contact our team.