The Slipstream Aerodynamic, designed by Solomon Commercials, means vehicles are 10% more fuel-efficient, reducing the fleets’ carbon footprint.
The ‘curved’ design of the 12 and 18 tonne vehicles however, does not lend itself to the flat roof structure needed for ceiling-mounted hanging rails, which was a challenge that needed to be overcome.
“We have had to compromise significantly on load capacity,” said Adrian Burr, director of RP Meats. “We did however consider this worthwhile as a contribution to the company’s green credentials and carbon footprint strategy. Our commitment to lowering food miles remains unwavering.”
Gregory Thatcher, co-director at RP Meats, added: “Furthermore, we are introducing logistics planning software to limit our environmental impact. Coupled with recent investment into the latest insulation and cooling techniques in our refrigerated warehousing, RP Meats now has one of the greenest solutions in the business for storage and transport”.
Ian Lang of Solomon, the commercial bodybuilders based in Haslingden, Lancashire, stated: “It is incredibly pleasing to see a smaller-sized company take its environmental responsibility so seriously. It is our company ethos to work closely with all our customers, but working with Adrian and Greg at RP Meats has been particularly refreshing when they are prepared to go to such lengths as Slipstream; something more becoming to national fleets.”
Safety is also at the top of the agenda with the new fleet which is equipped with trackers, Bluetooth and the FORS 360 degree cameras, aiding driver visibility which is of paramount importance to the safety of cyclists.
Other initiatives to reduce environmental impact include building a state of the art 100 pallet chiller using the latest insulation and cooling techniques for a low energy and green solution.
