MM Packaging Deeside has added an electric shunt truck to its fleet to strengthen the firm’s sustainability credentials.
The project, in association with Farrall’s Group, is tipped to cut 15 tonnes per annum of carbon for the business, with the vehicle shifting materials from its manufacturing site to its warehouse.
The vehicle has a 240kw and Farrall’s Group is charging it through solar energy from its facility. The distance between MM Packaging’s manufacturing site and its warehouse is 1,200 yards.
The investment also includes a Jost KKS system, which enables drivers to automatically control and monitor the entire coupling and uncoupling process via a remote control from the cab. Further automation comes through a system from Joloda Hydraroll, which assists with loading on and off the truck, helping to reduce manual labour and promote a safer working environment.
The electric shunt truck was supplied by Volvo truck dealership Thomas Hardie Commercials.
Operational efficiency is described as ‘critical’ for MM Packaging as it moves stock from factory to warehouse over a 24/7 period. Trailers can now be emptied in three minutes, while each part of the workflow is operated at ground level.
“This project has been a real collaborative effort with Farrall’s Group, who have used all their expertise and knowhow,” said MM Packaging MD Julian Freeman. “It underlines our commitment to the environment by further reducing our carbon footprint. It also demonstrates our ability to innovate through our investment to further automate the site.”
Farrall’s Group MD Matthew Farrall added, “There has been a joint vision on improving carbon footprint and productivity. This is a positive starting point for MM Packaging on their Electric Vehicle journey and a big step to meet their Scope 3 emissions targets. The investment in automation also helps create a safer working environment for MM Packaging.”
