Since launching Africa’s first AxlePower refrigeration trailer in January 2024, Woolworths SA and DP World have grown the fleet to 16 trailers reducing carbon emissions.

AxlePower is designed to capture kinetic energy from the trailer’s movement and convert it into electricity to power the truck’s refrigeration unit. This innovative technology allows the refrigeration unit to operate independently of the truck’s diesel engine and makes cooling 100% electric and eco-friendly. The result is reliable cold-chain logistics with zero carbon emissions from the trailer.

“To get the most out of this technology, and to maximise the sustainability benefits, we operate these trailers on our long-haul routes between Johannesburg and Cape Town and north into Namibia,” says Feroz Koor, Woolworths Group Head of Sustainability. “With 12 trailers already on the road, we saved 102 tonnes* of carbon emissions in the last year alone. Expanding to 16 trailers not only accelerates progress, but it also brings us closer towards our goal of 21 AxlePower trailers by June 2026, and creates the opportunity for even greater carbon savings in the future.”

This initiative is part of Woolworths’ Good Business Journey Vision2025+, which commits the business to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2040. By building a more efficient and sustainable supply chain, Woolworths continues to reduce its environmental footprint while ensuring that Woolies customers continue to enjoy the fresh, exceptional quality products they love.