UK-based commercial vehicle leasing company Hireco has partnered with Sunswap to incorporate its battery-powered Endurance refrigeration units into its fleet, aiming to offer a zero-emission alternative to traditional diesel-powered cooling systems.
The solar and battery-powered Endurance units, designed for trailers used in heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), eliminate the need for diesel fuel. Powered by rooftop solar arrays and onboard battery packs, the units can maintain cooling for up to 22 hours on a single charge and fully recharge in 80 minutes via a Type 2 EV socket. They can also be operated remotely or through an integrated touchscreen panel.
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“This investment in Sunswap’s technology aligns with our commitment to sustainable transport solutions,” said James Smith, CEO of Hireco Group. “We’re focused on helping our customers reduce their environmental impact while maintaining operational excellence. Sunswap’s proven zero-emission refrigeration technology offers our customers a practical path to cleaner, more efficient cold chain operations.”
Sunswap claims that its refrigeration units offer operating costs up to 81% lower than diesel-based systems and can prevent around 120 tonnes of CO2 emissions over a decade. The company has been expanding following a £17.3 million investment from venture capital firm BGF and the growth of its manufacturing facility in Surrey.
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In November 2024, logistics company DFDS became the first to deploy Sunswap’s technology in full-time service, ordering ten Endurance units. At the time, Sunswap CEO Michael Lowe called it “a defining moment for Sunswap and sustainable transport refrigeration,” marking a significant step toward large-scale diesel-free cold chain operations.