Temperature-controlled distribution specialist Evans European Transport has commissioned its first diesel-electric hybrid Fuso Canter.

The Grimsby-based operator’s 7.5-tonne Canter 7C15 Eco Hybrid is fitted with an insulated box body by The Cold Consortium, of York, and a GAH single-temperature refrigeration unit.

Colin Evans, director of Evans European Transport, said: “The Canter Eco Hybrid is already hitting 17.5mpg, a figure we expect will get even better."

The Canter 7C15 Eco Hybrid is powered by a 150hp diesel engine that works in parallel with a  54hp electric motor.

From stationary it uses electric power only, then switches to a combination of diesel and electric once a speed of around 6mph has been reached.

Depending on the power demand, the electric motor also supports the diesel at higher speeds. Engine stop-start technology is also fitted.

Founded in 1994, Evans European Transport specialises in the same-day collection and delivery of a diverse range of goods including soups, sauces, fish and prepared meals for some of the biggest food producers and supermarkets, either direct to store or distribution centres.

Its vehicles also carry pharmaceutical products, whether in finished form or as raw materials requiring critical control of the temperature.