Cougar picks Carrier temperature control for pharmaceutical cargo
Cougar Couriers’ order includes one of the first Supra HE 13 units deployed in the UK, as well as a Supra HE 6 system
Heathrow-based Cougar Couriers has invested in two new rigid trucks mounted with Carrier Transicold Supra High Efficiency (HE) units for its UK and European temperature-controlled operations, including pharmaceutical transport.
The order includes one of the first Supra HE 13 units deployed in the UK, as well as a Supra HE 6 system.
Founded in 1983, Cougar Couriers provides same-day delivery service from its headquarters near Heathrow Airport, supporting a wide range of industries. The company specialises in the transport of pharmaceutical goods, including medications, medical supplies, controlled drugs, blood and patient specimens.
Replacing older models in the Cougar Couriers 15-strong temperature-controlled fleet, the new additions were supplied by FVTH Commercial Vehicle Hire and feature insulated body work from Polar Truck & Van. The two Carrier Transicold Supra HE units are said to deliver precise temperature control regardless of external conditions, essential for the customer’s urgent same-day pharmaceutical deliveries.
“Given the sensitive nature of the pharmaceutical products we transport, ensuring temperature integrity is maintained throughout the cold chain is non-negotiable,” said Matt Wigglesworth, transport manager at Cougar Couriers.
“This is why we have been turning to Carrier for years now – they supply the best refrigeration equipment on the market, which means our customers can always trust us to look after their cargo.
“We’ve developed a fantastic relationship with the teams at Carrier Transicold, whose forward-thinking approach and technical excellence play a vital role in helping us provide an outstanding service to our customers.”
The Carrier Transicold Supra HE series integrates mechanical and electrical subsystems to create a quieter, lighter and more compact unit that enhances efficiency, performance and uptime.
The combination of a single drive belt powertrain and variable speed fans means the Supra HE 6 consumes up to 41 per cent less fuel versus the legacy Supra 750 unit. The design also simplifies installation and improves aerodynamics, says Carrier, while a 30 per cent reduction of brazed joints and 42 per cent less refrigerant charge minimises potential refrigerant gas leaks and reduces carbon impact.
The unit also enables quieter operation versus a standard Supra, producing up to 2dB (A) less noise while maintaining the same cooling capacity. This reduction is achieved through the integration of an insulated exhaust system and redesigned cover. The result is a more comfortable working environment for drivers and reduced noise when delivering to urban locations.
The more powerful Supra HE 13 also offers high performance and impressive efficiency, leveraging the same internal architecture to deliver 27 per cent fuel savings compared to its legacy unit. It also features a class-leading light weight and compact silhouette, which is the same singular size across the HE range.
“Carrier Transicold’s collaboration with Cougar Couriers reflects our shared commitment to reliability and innovation, and we’re confident that these vehicles will play a crucial role in their continued success,” said Tony Biggs, national sales manager, Carrier Transicold UK.
“The HE technology ensures that every load meets the strictest safety and quality standards with ease.”
The newly added rigid trucks are expected to cover approximately 50,000 kilometres annually and remain in service for up to four years. They contribute to Carrier’s 2030 goal of helping customers reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by more than one gigaton. Both vehicles are fully supported by Carrier Transicold’s oneCall 24/7 incident management service.
