InfraFleet, the specialist in rental and leasing of sustainable construction equipment, has announced that it has launched the first 100% zero-emission, electric, off-grid mobile welfare cabin, the E-Smart 22.9.
Developed in partnership with UK manufacturer AJC Easy Cabin, the E-Smart is the first sustainable off-grid cabin with no diesel power source. It brings industry-changing levels of comfort and welfare for the UK’s construction workers.
The E-Smart represents the next step for InfraFleet, following the £10 million backing from Octopus Investments earlier this year. This capital will help InfraFleet as it continues its mission to decarbonise diesel equipment used in infrastructure construction and maintenance and build a 100% servicing footprint powered entirely by renewable electricity.
The E-smart is an answer to increasing sustainability requirements for projects and provides customers with hassle-free opportunities to reduce their carbon footprint. The E-Smart integrates industry-leading sustainable off-grid power, including an expandable solar array, a wind turbine and internal and external batteries for winter. Batteries are set up for quick swapping and are monitored and serviced by InfraFleet, meaning there is no impact on customer usage patterns. Other features include advanced telematics for smart servicing and energy efficiency and CCTV for enhanced site security.
Workers will benefit not only from no exposure to carcinogenic diesel fumes but industry-first levels of comfort, including air-conditioning for increasingly warmer summer days, and lighting mimicking natural changes in daylight to support the body’s circadian rhythm.
Chris Medley, Managing Director at InfraFleet, commented: ‘The development and launch of the E-Smart represents another milestone in building our sustainable equipment portfolio to support our customers in decarbonising the construction and maintenance of the UK’s infrastructure projects. The launch also represents the first product in our portfolio developed in partnership with AJC, who have demonstrated their expertise as a leading manufacturer in sustainable equipment.’
Simon Fletcher, Operations Director at AJC, said: ‘We are always pushing the boundaries within our industry; setting new standards is our main aim. Our partnership with InfraFleet reinforces our commitment to delivering reliable, zero-emission solutions, and their expertise in renewable equipment services ensures seamless operations. Together, we’re driving the industry towards a greener future as we all look to accelerate the UK’s path to net zero.’
Jav Samsa, Managing Director at AJC, added: ‘We’re proud to celebrate our 60th anniversary in 2024. the E-Smart represents a monumental leap forward resulting from 60 years of trailer-building experience. Collaborating with InfraFleet, an industry leader in zero-emission fleet hire, further solidifies our commitment to delivering the highest quality, eco-friendly solutions.’
Lukasz Michalak, Investment Director at Octopus Investments, concluded: ‘InfraFleet is a perfect example of our sweet spot at Octopus – backing entrepreneurs who are growing their mission-driven business in sectors which need disruption. We are delighted to have been working with Chris from the beginning of his journey as we see immense potential in his business, and we look forward to seeing the E-Smart in action as well as whatever innovation comes next”.
InfraFleet and AJC were both recognised for their work on the E-Smart 22.9 with a gold Green Apple environment award for innovation in engineering and manufacturing.
