EQUANS designed an innovative electric van equipped with sustainable refrigeration for transporting food for the largest Belgian dairy cooperative.
Transport and sustainability are not incompatible. We’re convinced of that at EQUANS. When it comes to refrigerated transport, the challenge is twofold: to keep sensitive products at an optimal temperature, while meeting increasingly strict emission standards. To offer a sustainable approach to our client Milcobel, we implemented a no-compromise solution that combines the advantages of an electric vehicle and a natural refrigeration system.
An optimal environmental solution
Milcobel is the biggest dairy cooperative in Belgium. It collects 1.6 billion litres of milk per year from 2,600 dairy farms and processes it into a range of dairy products. As a company, Milcobel wants to be a pioneer in the field of sustainability. Its ambition? To meet United Nations goals, in particular by organising a collection and distribution chain that is as energy-efficient as possible. The cooperative therefore turned to our teams to help them find an ecological, efficient and reliable transport solution for the delivery of its products in urban locations, over short distances.
An eco-friendly van
As a specialist in industrial and commercial refrigeration, EQUANS provides complete solutions in the field of refrigerated transport. For Milcobel, we created a vehicle that drastically reduces its carbon footprint. This 100% electric van uses ammonia to keep food fresh. Unlike hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), this natural refrigerant does not emit greenhouse gases. It is therefore completely harmless to the ozone layer.
Ahead of the legislation
Another advantage is that the vehicle allows access to all urban areas, regardless of the restrictions in force. Some cities have even begun taking steps to ban commercial vehicles that produce emissions such as carbon monoxide. Our refrigerated transport solution guarantees access to all conurbations without exception. In addition, the fact that no fluorinated refrigerants are used ensures full compliance with current and future regulations. A plus for a producer or retailer who wants to develop an environmentally-responsible identity. And a serious boost for the environment.
