Refrigeration that goes the distance
Onboard power solutions specialist Fischer Panda UK discusses a recent project in the refrigerated sector
The commercial vehicle sector has seen the transition to electric accelerate as part of the push for decarbonisation. But for operators in the cold chain sector, including those serving the pharmaceutical industry, onboard power presents a challenge on how to maintain reliable, temperature-controlled environments without compromising what’s in transit, plus vehicle range or payload.
A company with the ability to overcome this is Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions, which for 30 years has supplied sustainable mobile power solutions in the commercial vehicle industry.
One such case is highlighted when Fischer Panda UK partnered with Mertrux, the UK’s exclusive Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle dealer, to solve this type of challenge.
The six-month project saw the team – working alongside GAH, DBS Ltd, GRP and Pace Technology – develop an advanced, autonomous onboard power system, resulting in a fully integrated zero-emission vehicle for high-performing refrigerated transport, to support the needs of a pharmaceutical company.
GAH provided the platforms to operate the temperature controls, giving access to the refrigeration systems at any given time.
GRP-Group, whose expertise is in manufacturing refrigerated transport, managed the refrigeration conversions and DBS Ltd provided an enhanced active portable container to control the temperature of more proteinaceous products between +2°C and +8°C in line with GDP (Good Distribution Practice) guidelines.
Pace Technology provided and installed the Live View CCTV, Telematics, Power Management, Specialist Door Locking and Ai Technology, to include data analytics and a sophisticated reporting platform.
Tackling the cold chain challenge
Ensuring pharmaceutical goods remain at tightly controlled temperatures during transport is non-negotiable and must be protected throughout the entire delivery cycle.
In battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), the demands of refrigeration and other onboard systems can negatively impact range. This issue becomes especially critical in urban areas, including those with strict low-emission zone (LEZ) requirements, where electric solutions are often dictated.
“Power-heavy payloads like refrigeration units can pose a significant risk to the operational range of EVs,” explained Chris Fower, director of sales and marketing at Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions.
“It was important that this system could run autonomously and independently of the vehicle’s OEM drive system, both inside and outside of LEZs. So, we needed to create a light, integrated solution that wouldn’t compromise performance or payload.”
The project focused on equipping a 4.2-tonne Mercedes-Benz eSprinter with a high-performing refrigeration system capable of running for extended periods, completely independent from the vehicle’s traction battery.
Ian Saunders, Fischer Panda UK’s vehicle and specialist applications sales manager, led the project.
“To prioritise the power needed to maintain medicine and pharmaceuticals at the optimal temperature, while relying on a potentially already compromised OEM drive range, an extra Lithium based battery system was needed.
“To address this, we developed a Mastervolt MLI battery and recharge system that would provide independent, reliable extended running and recharging times. Using the Mastervolt MLI Li-Ion battery and Mastervolt Chargemaster, acting as a DC power supply more than satisfied this requirement. We also optimised solar charging capabilities to further extend the system run times.”
Installing a slim-profile semi-flexible rooftop solar panel helped to extend runtimes between recharges and is a sustainable source of power.
Cory James, business development manager for Mertrux commented, “Without Fischer Panda UK we wouldn’t have been able to make this project work.
“The battery they recommended powers both fridges within the vehicle, which draws from the vehicle battery. Their team also gave us ongoing support throughout the process. We’re very pleased with the final outcome which meant we could confidently satisfy this particular customer.”
The first Mertrux vehicle was successfully commissioned in March 2025.
Fischer Panda UK’s work on electric vehicles’ power systems was recognised recently at the 2025 Motor Trader Commercial Industry Awards, where the team won the ‘Innovation in Vehicle Enhancement’ category.
As the UK’s commercial vehicle sector works towards electrification, projects like this demonstrate that sustainable solutions are achievable and they can deliver exceptional performance. For cold chain operators, having access to reliable, independent refrigeration is essential.
With Fischer Panda UK’s integrated solutions, operators can meet emissions targets, preserve valuable payload space, and transport goods effectively and confidently.
Operators can learn more about Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions or discuss a tailored onboard power system via the website.
