Azure Dynamics Corporation (Azure Dynamics) has received an order from Kidron Body Company (Kidron) for nine low emission electric power (LEEP Freeze) systems for Foster Farms Dairy. Azure Dynamics’ LEEP Freeze system is coupled with Kidron's UltraTemp cold plate to create a reliable transport refrigeration solutions. The system will assure that Foster Farms Dairy continues to consistently deliver fresh, high quality products to its customers.
“Unlike other refrigeration technologies that can unexpectedly shut down, our LEEPTM Freeze with UltraTemp cold plate technology can maintain cold temperatures for a significant period of time even if the vehicle itself malfunctions,” said Jay Sandler, Azure Dynamics vice president of sales. “For a company like Foster Farms Dairy, it is critical to move products to the market in ideal temperatures on reliable transportation to preserve freshness. This system does that better than any other solution while also reducing operational expenses associated with fuel and maintenance.”
The LEEP Freeze system draws energy in an efficient manner from a vehicle’s primary engine during normal driving and delivers it to the UltraTemp cold plate technology system, which allows the cold plates to maintain the set temperature for the duration of a typical multi stop delivery route. The system can also be plugged into the electrical grid for off-duty charging. By eliminating the diesel engine that is part of a conventional refrigeration system, UltraTemp with LEEP Freeze can save up to a gallon of fuel per hour, maintains set-point temperatures even when the engine is off, and offers much quieter operation.
Foster Farms Dairy President and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Foster said, “We are committed to providing our customers with the freshest dairy products possible and are always mindful of ways that we can help improve the environment. In addition to having all the performance characteristics we required, the LEEPTM Freeze system significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and therefore was a natural selection for us.”
The UltraTemp with LEEP Freeze technology specified by Foster Farms Dairy can reduce C02 emissions by over 26,000 pounds annually compared to an engine-driven mechanical refrigerating system. It is quickly becoming the preferred solution for the refrigerated transportation industry and a number of other potential customers are evaluating the technology for their own specific needs.
Azure Dynamics is a Canada-based developer of hybrid electric and electric powertrains.
Kidron is a US-based company.