An interview with the fleet manager of Vos Logistics Benelux Distribution about the impact of SolarOnTop on their operations

TRANSPORT & LOGISTIEK conducted an insightful interview with Norbert Reijnders, Fleet Manager of Vos Logistics Benelux Distribution. In the discussion, Reijnders detailed how the company has achieved 4% to 5% fuel savings by harnessing solar power and highlighted the significant environmental and financial benefits of integrating SolarOnTop technology into their fleet operations.

Q: Could you briefly describe Vos Logistics' operations and how this aligns with the decision to implement SolarOnTop?

Norbert Reijnders: Vos Logistics specializes in transport and customer-specific logistics services. Simplifying, managing, and making operations efficient for our customers is what we stand for. With a network of 30 owned branches, the company operates throughout Europe.

At Vos Logistics, we set specific environmental goals and help our customers achieve theirs. When developing new products and services, we prioritize "green" logistics solutions and technologies that reduce both CO₂ emissions and energy consumption. This commitment led us to collaborate with IM Efficiency to implement SolarOnTop.

Q: How many trailers currently feature SolarOnTop, and how many solar panels are installed on each?

Norbert Reijnders: A total of 5 trailer/truck combinations are equipped with SolarOnTop. Each trailer has 10 panels, and each panel has a capacity of 375wp. These panels primarily support the truck’s dynamo, ensuring the battery for the cabin and tailgate remains fully charged.

Q: What motivated Vos Logistics to choose SolarOnTop, and since when has it been in use?

Norbert Reijnders: Four years ago, we initiated a pilot system to determine if the projected fuel savings could be achieved. Due to the positive results, we decided to equip more trailer combinations with SolarOnTop. Along with further electrifying our fleet, we see this as one of the innovations we will continue to invest in over the coming years.

Q: What are the main benefits of SolarOnTop?

Norbert Reijnders: A constantly charged battery for the tailgate, reduced use of the alternator and no more idling of the engine, resulting in reduced CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption. Additionally, we receive a lot of positive feedback from our customers and drivers.

Another advantage is that both the trailer and truck batteries show less wear and need to be replaced less frequently.

Q: What fuel savings does SolarOnTop provide, and what is the estimated payback period?

Norbert Reijnders: We observe an average fuel savings of 4% to 5%. This varies depending on both the use of the tailgate, and the number of miles driven. A trailer combination that travels many kilometers and where the tailgate is used intensively saves more fuel than a combination with fewer kilometers driven.

Q: Does Vos Logistics plan to equip more trailers with SolarOnTop in the future?

Norbert Reijnders: With the current growth of the fleet and zero-emission zones, market demand will increase for new solutions such as hydrogen, electric, or hybrid vehicles. Since IM Efficiency is also developing a SolarOnTop system that can support both EV vehicles and the grid, we see great potential in this solution.

Q: Are there specific instructions for drivers using SolarOnTop, and what maintenance procedures are involved?

Norbert Reijnders: The SolarOnTop installation on the trailer requires minimal modification to the truck. Solar energy is automatically transferred from the trailer to the truck without any action needed from the driver.

Since we regularly wash our equipment, no additional maintenance is required. During the annual MOT inspection, we conduct a thorough check to ensure the wiring and panel connections are secure and functioning correctly.