Hireco partners with Aspoeck to launch Electric Chiller Van

In another exciting development for our goal to offer our customers a Total Electric Solution, in partnership with Aspoeck, we have developed a solar-powered electric chiller vehicle.

In tandem with our light commercial vehicle division which combines years of experience and knowledge in vehicle hire to provide a solutions approach bespoke to each customer's requirement, the solar-powered electric chiller van is yet another offering we can provide.

With the ever-developing market of electric vehicles, a constant concern is pricing and range anxiety, especially with a vehicle such as a chiller pulling a vast amount of power. Hireco has worked closely with industry leaders Aspoeck to develop a solar-powered chiller to combat both concerns.

“The challenge posed by the application was to provide a solution with the flexibility to suit a multipurpose rental fleet, whilst retaining the cost to value principles that under pin Hireco’s position as contract hire specialists.”

— Speaking on the partnership, Aspock describes the journey.

Through consultations and investigations with multiple interested parties, the decision was made to use the solar panels to mitigate the range-depleting effects of the onboard fridge system.

The end result is a cost-effective, robust and efficient installation from Aspock which will continue to serve the operational requirements of the vehicle operator, offering industry leading return on investment to compliment the industry-leading position of Hireco.”

Key features:

Based on the energy efficient LDV EV80
Offers the operator a range of up to 120 miles
Uses a combined charging system
Fully charged within 1.5 hours with a 40kW DC charger
Load capacity of 1000kg and a capacity of 10 cubic metres
Low maintenance needs
Offers the benefit of a regenerative battery

The EV80 electric chiller is insulated with 75mm body panelling and is equipped with a Thermoking B100 fridge unit which produces a load compartment range of ambient to 0 degrees. Importantly, the driveline battery of the vehicle is unaffected from the fridge operation as the solar panels condition and charge an ancillary power source to run the fridge unit. Working closely with the engineering team at Aspoeck we have developed a chiller vehicle which does not significantly deplete the range of the electric driveline but at the same time is up to the rigours of a days work delivering good around the city.

We are also working closely with telematics providers to provide fleet operators with a detailed insight into the daily operation of the electric chiller. Live data feedback will allow us to continue to develop this product offering in the fast-moving electric vehicle market.

As leaders in the commercial leasing and finance marketplace, Hireco provides clients with expertly sourced assets, cost-effective financing, full maintenance management and efficient disposal underpinned by outstanding customer service.

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