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.