The firm says early indications suggest its Scania 32-tonne 8x2 rigid conversions will save 53% fuel, compared to conventional vehicles.
That means more than 1,700 tonnes of CO2 taken out of the supply chain over the next five years, if its entire 50-strong fleet was to be converted.
Bibby has been working with tank builders Sayers Road Tankers and Crossland Tankers to develop its new milk collection vehicles, and seven Euro 6 Scania 32-tonners have so far been deployed.
Chief developments include an improved hydraulic pump drive and a Gardner Denver Optiload engine management system, which ensures the engine only runs while pumping.
Additionally, changes to the pipework layout make cleaning and maintenance easier – resulting in a reduction in service requirements from three per year to just one.
The cabinet area is also heated to prevent the pump freezing in cold weather.
The new vehicles also incorporate Scania C200 on-board telematics to monitor performance. Data is analysed and used to assist with driver training, leading to further fuel efficiency improvements and reduced vehicle downtime.
“With new technology comes new opportunities to cut costs and carbon,” comments First Milk distribution manager Robin Shipton.
“[Bibby Distribution] is a reliable, trustworthy partner, which continues to provide bespoke solutions for us and gives us the flexibility we need to successfully process highly variable collections and deliveries – absolutely critical to our business.”