Discounter explores kinetic energy recovery for trailers
ALDI has launched a pilot scheme that sees the discounter trial all-electric refrigerated trailers, as part of its efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
The trailers employ a kinetic energy recovery system. It is used to charge on-board batteries that power refrigeration as the trailer’s wheels turn.
Aldi’s trial trailers can also be plugged into the electric point at the discounter’s regional distribution centre in Cheshire. They emit zero carbon emissions and particulate matters like smoke, dust or other substances.
The trial forms part of Aldi’s wider efforts to lower carbon emissions across its lorry fleet.
Aldi is also trialling alternative fuels such as compressed natural gas and hydrotreated vegetable oil.
And from this year, all new trailers joining Aldi’s fleet will also be fitted with solar mats, which will both provide power and allow the discounter to track its solar energy use and CO2 savings.
Liz Fox, corporate responsibility director at Aldi UK, said: “We want to do as much as possible to reduce our environmental impact. That’s why we have been carbon neutral since January 2019 and use energy from renewable sources.”
