Tech to decarbonise cold chain logistics secures £17.3m investment

Sunswap’s combined solar and battery technology is fitted to the trailer units of articulated lorries carrying chilled consumer goods, thereby providing an alternative to diesel powered refrigeration.

The £17.3m invested by BGF, Shell Ventures, Move Energy, and existing backers Barclays and Clean Growth Fund, will accelerate the further development and production of Sunswap’s zero-emission Transport Refrigeration Units (TRUs).

In a statement, Michael Lowe, co-founder and CEO of Sunswap said: “This funding will be instrumental in accelerating our growth and expanding our presence in the UK and European markets. It will enable us to ramp up production, support further customer trials, and invest in the development of our zero-emission technology. Together, we will work towards a cleaner, greener future for cold chain logistics, helping businesses meet their sustainability targets.”

Sunswap’s trailer agnostic ‘Endurance’ TRU combines advanced battery technology, roof-mounted solar power, and rapid charging via a 32A 3 Phase Commando Socket or Type 2 EV Socket. The system’s cloud-based telematics system it enables operators to monitor and control units.

The Leatherhead-based company said Endurance’s battery size is matched precisely to a customer’s delivery cycle, adding that the system’s smallest battery pack weighs 10-20 per cent less than diesel equivalents with their smallest fuel tank.

The company’s technology has undergone commercial trials with companies including Tesco and Muller where it is said to have demonstrated better performance and lower total cost of ownership compared to diesel units. The company’s list of customers includes TIP Group, DFDS, plus leading UK operators.

Funding will be used to expand production to meet growing customer interest, increase a nationwide service network, and further advance technological development as the business looks to capitalise on market opportunities in the UK and Europe for more sustainable transport solutions.

Rowan Bird, investor at BGF, said: “As the logistics industry moves towards more sustainable practices, Sunswap’s TRU technology stands out as a leading solution for fleet operators seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and operational costs. This is a groundbreaking business with significant near-term market potential, and we look forward to being part of the company’s growth journey.”