Sainsbury's is adding 230 new Mercedes-Benz Sprinters to its home delivery fleet, each mounted with a mix of RVL, Lawrence David and Solomon Commercials bodywork.
All are being fitted with Carrier Transicold's NEOS 100S split system refrigeration units, which – thanks to their roof-mounted design, requiring only a slim-line evaporator to be fitted inside the body – will enable the supermarket chain to maximise load capacity.
The delivery marks significant repeat business for Carrier Transicold, and follows the reliability of an initial 230 NEOS 100S systems provided for Sainsbury's during 2011.
"The advantages of the Carrier system are clear," comments Phil Cane, delivery operations manager for Sainsbury's Online. "We have a more reliable, lower maintenance fridge, which meets our operational requirements while carrying a lower volume of refrigerant."
And he adds: "The NEOS 100S unit is simple to maintain, easy to service and shows improved reliability versus older, engine-mounted and compressor-driven units that we have had on the fleet in the past.
"Our repeat business with Carrier Transicold is based on a strong, all-round package, comprising good customer service, reliable equipment and solid performance."
Unlike direct-drive systems, the NEOS 100S uses power from the vehicle's alternator to maintain cooling or heating capacity, regardless of engine speed. This guarantees temperature integrity and ensures faster pull-down while reducing engine load, resulting in improved fuel consumption.
