Solent Transport Services are first in the UK to take delivery of Krone’s sliding bogie Box Liner container carriers with underslung genset, to provide power for refrigerated shipping containers. Based in Southampton, a short distance from the Docks, Solent has so far this year added 10 Box Liners to its container carrier fleet, the latest two of which come with the on-board auxiliary power. The Krone Box Liners are designed to carry 20’,30’,40’ and 45’ containers, two boxes at once or any standard sized tank. Quick-release twist locks also ensure fast and easy handling. For Solent Transport Services Managing Director, Mike Lewry, this is a key operational benefit: “We specialise in container transport throughout the UK to all major ports, so it’s important to use only the most flexible equipment which will enable us to achieve maximum utilisation and a fast return on investment. These Box Liners are perfect in all respects and easier to operate than other skeletal trailers. No question, that adds up to faster turn-round times and greater efficiency all-round.” Meanwhile, the UM5 genset, described by makers Genmark, as ‘the most sustainable genset on the market’, is designed to keep the weight as low as possible while maintaining the highest performance. Accordingly, it weighs in at just 470 kgs and using a fuel-efficient 2.286 litre low-noise engine, consumes 2.2 litres of diesel per hour at an average output of 380v/50Hz. Furthermore, while quietly running at just 70 dBa, the genset can handle a 3 x 1-phase circuit with varying loads, as well as 3-phase loads at the same time. A 460v/60Hz option is also available. “Our steady growth, since early 2013, has been underpinned by the maxim: ‘If it goes in a container, we carry it.’” adds Mike. “That said, each customer’s requirements are individually catered for and with these genset-equipped Box Liners we have even more flexibility to offer.” The trailers also come with a 10-year anti-corrosion warranty, confidently offered by Krone owing to the company’s high-tech surface treatment process. This includes chassis shot-blasting, KTL electro static dipping and a high-grade powder-coat paint finish. “Appearance is everything,” concludes Mike Lewry “and it’s good to know that these Box Liners will go the distance - both from an image and low-maintenance standpoint. Overall, this is a higher quality container carrier and like-for-like, a far superior product.”