Waitrose says it has witnessed strong performance from seven electric temperature-controlled vans, acquired as part of a government-funded trial to test the validity of wireless EV charging.
The supermarket chain’s new Vauxhall Vivaro-e vans – fitted with Carrier Transicold Neos 100 units – are being charged wirelessly via dedicated pads in the parking bays at the Waitrose store at St Katharine Docks, London.
All seven vans, which entered service in early 2022, operate on home delivery routes across the city.
The supermarket’s commercial fleet delivers to more than 330 stores across the UK and services customer home deliveries.
It intends to fully electrify all its vans and LCVs by 2030.
Waitrose’s latest EVs will operate seven days a week, with an annual mileage of about 19,000 km.
Dominic Stephens, partner & fleet engineering manager at Waitrose & Partners said, “It’s great to be working with Carrier Transicold, as a fast-paced business we’re always looking for more efficient ways to run our fleet as we work towards our net zero targets.
“This trial has given us a greener solution for us to deliver to customers quickly, particularly during the summer months.”
Carrier Transicold’s roof-mounted 12-volt Neos 100 system is designed to operate completely on a 230-volt auxiliary battery system.
The unit’s design combines constant cooling capabilities with a slim profile, helping to improve vehicle aerodynamics.
Vic Coppolella, key account manager, Carrier Transicold said, “The simplicity of the Neos 100 makes it an ideal unit for this trial, and we’re pleased it performed so strongly in quite challenging circumstances.”
