Carrier Transicold UK delivers temperature-controlled equipment that meets the requirements of the UK Department for Transport's (DfT) 10-year trial of 15.65 meter trailers. All 25 new triple-compartment Gray & Adams semi-trailers will be fitted with the Vector 1850 MT (multi-temperature) low-noise unit, which is ideally suited to Tesco's superstore deliveries.
"Tesco operates one of the largest Vector 1850-equipped fleets in the UK and the beauty of this technology is that it is flexible in suiting a wide range of trailer specifications, be it single, double-deck or these new longer length trailers," said John Forster, sales director, Carrier Transicold UK.
To accommodate the additional 2.05 meter trailer length, Carrier Transicold had to modify the refrigeration equipment with a longer wiring loom that connects the nose-mounted unit to a series of evaporators and temperature sensors.
The Vector 1850 unit is ideal for this longer generation trailer, due to its higher capacity, quick pull-down and accurate temperature control along with the unique ability to heat and cool different compartments simultaneously. The Vector 1850 unit's exclusive E-Drive technology incorporates an electric generator to drive the compressor and condenser fans – unlike conventional technology that is normally belt driven direct from a diesel engine.
The new extended length trailers are expected to help fleets cut vehicle movements by transporting more goods per trailer load. This will, in turn, take vehicles off the road, reducing fuel usage and minimizing exhaust emissions.
"The UK infrastructure means it is essential to use the road network to transport goods, so it is up to every operator to minimize the negative impact this has on the environment," said Cliff Smith, fleet engineering manager, Tesco. "Operational benefits sit alongside this, as the more focus that is placed on reducing road miles, the more fleets are looking to maximize load fill and cut emissions. Hopefully these longer length trailers will prove successful in addressing both issues simultaneously.
"The Carrier Transicold UK team has supported us in developing suitable refrigeration options in the past for our single and double-deck trailers so, naturally, we looked to them for this new venture," added Smith.
Upon delivery into the Tesco fleet, all 25 new 15.65 meter trailers will be covered by Carrier Transicold's Golden Cold repair and maintenance contracts, with all maintenance recommended by Carrier Transicold carried out by manufacturer-trained technicians using genuine replacement parts. Golden Cold contracts also include access to 24-hour emergency assistance throughout the UK.
