What a bright idea! Trailers powered by sunlight!

Worldwide logistics company DHL is partnering with semi-trailer manufacturer, Don-Bur, to launch a system that draws solar energy from trailer roofs and converts it into electricity to operate the trailer lights and tail-lifts.

The Don-Bur system, called TRAiLAR, incorporates the use of a thin film of lightweight, durable solar matting, which is fitted to the roofs of articulated, box-truck and draw-bar trailers and is connected to the vehicle’s battery or additional on-board batteries via a charge controller.

We think that this could be an awesome system for sunny South Africa!

DHL is working towards achieving zero emissions by 2050. The system will be used initially on DHL’s own delivery fleet, before being rolled out to other operators in 2019.

During testing at the Millbrook Proving Ground, Bedfordshire, fuel savings of up to 5,2 percent were achieved.

“Ultimately, we need fewer [and] cleaner and quieter vehicles on the roads,” says Phil Roe, MD for Network Logistics and Transport, DHL Supply Chain UK and Ireland.

“This can be achieved while also helping customers reduce their transport costs. That’s why we’re committed to developing new, sustainable transport solutions that can be rolled out across supply chains for the benefit of the environment, the public and our customers.”

Don-Bur isn’t a name that is particularly well-known to South African transport operators, but it’s been in existence in the United Kingdom since 1981. The name “Don-Bur” derives from the name of its founder; Donald Burton. In 1981, as part of one of the first management buy-outs, Welford Truck Bodies became Don-Bur, which was located on a four-acre site with just 70 members of staff.

Today, still based in Stoke-on-Trent in the heart of England, the Don-Bur group has an annual turnover of about £50 million (R902 million).

Don-Bur’s premises cover some 18 acres, much of which has been developed into covered manufacturing and assembly bays. Around 500 staff are responsible for the impressive production rate of 1 500 units per annum covering anything from 7,5-tonne rigid bodywork to complex hydraulic moving deck trailers.