The integrated solar management system used Kuehne+Nagel, developed by IM Efficiency, allows solar-powered charging of electric appliances such as phones and computers, as well as powering the truck cabin air conditioning and the tail lift.
In addition, there is a decreased load on the engine, which lowers fuel consumption. As one would expect, during the summer months with more sun, the fuel consumption is even lower.
The IM Efficiency system used by Kuehne+Nagel allows drivers to measure how much solar electricity has been delivered to the vehicle by the solar panels, and how much per activity is consumed.
Although Kuehne+Nagel are not the first to utilise such a system, the company has released some interesting figures regarding the maximum emission-cutting potential the solar panels have.
According to Kuehne+Nagel, the solar panels can reduce fuel consumption by up to 1,200 litres per year, per vehicle. This reduces a truck’s overall fuel consumption by up to 6%, lowering CO2 emission per truck by 3.8 tonnes on an annual basis.
Commenting on the deployment of the system, René van den Akker, Kuehne+Nagel National Manager Road Logistics Benelux, said:
“As a leading logistics provider we are focused on developing solutions that decarbonise our industry and create sustainable supply chains. By applying technical innovations we can contribute to supporting healthier environments.”
Martijn Ildiz, CEO of Dutch company IM Efficiency, added:
“At IM Efficiency, we are proud to support Kuehne+Nagel’s commitment to the Science Based Target initiative to reduce CO2 emissions. By providing a sustainable solution to reduce fuel consumption of trucks with SolarOnTop, we are supporting the transition to fully sustainable road transportation in the future.”
