Gist pilots new electric refrigerated trailer for fresh and chilled food deliveries

Temperature controlled logistics specialist Gist is trialling the Vector eCool - a fully autonomous, all-electric, engineless refrigerated trailer system.

Developed by Carrier Transicold and Gray and Adams, the 13.6 metre electric trailer is being used for store deliveries of fresh and chilled foods to major supermarkets.

The new technology, which is making its debut in the UK, uses an under-mounted battery to power the fridge system and, when mobile, converts kinetic energy generated by the trailer’s axle to replenish the battery pack and power the refrigeration unit.

The resulting loop creates a fully autonomous system that produces no direct carbon dioxide or particulate emissions. The fridge is also lighter than the standard fridge and quieter, making it suitable for overnight urban deliveries.

Mick Pethard, Gist head of engineering, said: “We are always keen to trial new technologies and this is an exciting new product for us to explore. We’ve partnered Carrier refrigeration for a number of years to help us on our journey to improve fuel efficiency and Gist’s sustainability.”