Sunswap Expands UK Manufacturing Facility to Scale Zero-Emission TRU Production

Driving sustainability in transport refrigeration through innovation and local production.

Introduction

UK clean-tech pioneer Sunswap has expanded its in-house manufacturing operations in Leatherhead, Surrey. This move enables the company to scale up production of its Endurance solar-battery transport refrigeration units (TRUs), improve product quality, and boost local job creation — all while accelerating the shift toward zero-emission logistics across the UK and Europe.

About the New Facility

The expanded site brings design, R&D, and manufacturing under one roof, allowing Sunswap to improve efficiency and quality control. This vertical integration was supported by a £17.3 million Series B funding round aimed at meeting growing European demand for sustainable refrigeration technology.

Key Benefits of the Expansion

Comparison: Diesel vs Sunswap Endurance

Feature Diesel TRU Sunswap Endurance TRU
Carbon Emissions High (diesel-based) Zero tailpipe emissions
Operating Costs Volatile fuel costs Lower, stable renewable energy cost
Maintenance Frequent servicing Low due to fewer moving parts
Scalability Limited In-house modular scalability

Adoption by Industry Leaders

Leading logistics and retail firms like DFDS, Tesco, and Birds Eye have already integrated Sunswap’s Endurance units into their fleets, achieving up to 70% operational savings and significantly cutting CO₂ emissions.

Future Outlook

Sunswap plans to further increase its production capacity, develop advanced service partnerships, and enhance battery and solar performance through continuous R&D investment. The expansion marks a critical milestone in Europe’s journey toward clean cold-chain logistics.

FAQs

Q: What does Sunswap manufacture in the new facility?
A: The facility produces Endurance TRUs — solar-battery powered refrigeration units for trailers and transport fleets.
Q: How many new jobs will be created?
A: Approximately 75 new manufacturing and engineering jobs.
Q: Why is solar + battery refrigeration better than diesel?
A: It eliminates emissions, cuts running costs, and enables refrigeration even during idle periods.
Q: Who are Sunswap’s customers?
A: DFDS, Tesco, Birds Eye, Samworth Brothers, and other logistics leaders.