April 2009

THURSDAY 19 MARCH saw an exciting unveiling from Serco at Automechanika. The company launched its new Super Reefer Lite trailer, approximately one ton lighter than the standard reefer. The product has been in development for two years and exhibits some noteworthy innovations. 

It is a 30 pallet trailer weighing 8 240 kg, giving operators a potential ton of extra payload. This runs in line with the trailer’s slogan of “Less weight, more freight.” While a ton was saved in the manufacturing of the product, this by no means indicates that any compromises were made. In fact, it is quite the opposite. 

While lightness was the emphasis of the Super Reefer Lite’s development, there is more than just that to this trailer. Safety is also high on the list of priorities. It is not only safer for the road users, but for your load as well. Rather than going with the traditional 35 or 40 density foam, the Super Reefer Lite makes use of 50 density foam. Not only is it 25% stronger, it is also more thermally efficient. 

Clinton Holcroft speaks volumes on the benefits of Serco's new Super Reefer Lite.

Furthermore, the trailer has an electronic braking system on it that includes rollover stability control. This essentially monitors the trailer and when a rollover is suspected the brakes of the inside wheels are automatically activated in order to prevent the situation from escalating. This, of course, is done much quicker and with much more precise control than a driver would have. The trailer also has a smart board that can measure axle masses as well as raising or lowering the chassis for ease of loading and unloading at bays that may not necessarily be exactly the same height. 

Other features include a wireless telematics system in order for operators to be able to efficiently manage their fleet as well as tyre pressure monitors. The Super Reefer Lite is also easier to repair as it has a multitude of bolt on parts that can be replaced in a matter of hours as opposed to days. The electrical systems are also ‘plug-andplay’ for shorter repair times and ease of operation. 

Fuel efficiency and CO₂ emissions are also reduced with this trailer due to its lightweight construction, saving on fuel and making it a ‘green’ development. “All of this is to ensure that your assets are earning money,” notes Clinton Holcroft, managing director of Serco, “where they should be.” The trailer’s design is also decent and was one of the focuses of development according to Holcroft. The trailer is thus impressive in both form and function.

The Super Reefer Lite, given the quality and technology that the product brings to the table, is affordable and will actually pay itself off in less than three years according to Holcroft. “We’re in difficult times now,” notes Holcroft. “Now is the time to save on running costs.” Saving on running costs is precisely what the Super Reefer Lite was designed to do, and as such this launch is one that all operators should be aware of.