The benefits of solar roof kits for long-distance delivery vans

When it comes to finding the right delivery van for your business, every penny counts. At The Van Discount Company, we’ve spent the last 30 years providing the best possible van deals, helping our customers save up to 30% off RRP. That’s a great start for any business – but what else can you do to protect your profit margins when using your vans for long-distance deliveries? 

One solution that more and more commercial delivery vans are turning to is solar roof kits. Basically, this includes everything you need to start harnessing sunlight and turning it into power for your van, like lightweight solar panels and all the necessary mounting hardware and cables. But how exactly can solar power help long-distance delivery drivers? Let’s break it down. 

1. Solar roof kits can help to save you fuel and money 

As a long-distance delivery driver, there are certain things that make extended journeys smoother and more comfortable, from heating and air conditioning to charging ports and infotainment systems. Depending on the kind of deliveries you’re making, there are also other essential power needs to consider. For example, a business transporting temperature-sensitive products depends on refrigeration or freezer units to keep its cargo fresh and safe. But what does this have to do with solar roof kits? 

When the alternator is solely responsible for powering onboard equipment, it has to work harder, which in turn impacts the engine and leads to higher fuel consumption, even when you’re parked up. If your van is stationary for breaks, loading or unloading, but you still need power for things like comfort, lighting or tail lifts, you’ll have to keep the engine idling, which also consumes fuel. Just one hour of idling can use up a couple of pounds worth of fuel, which adds up with every journey. With solar panels, these extras are all covered by the power provided to the leisure battery, relieving the demands on the alternator and enabling you to still access power without keeping the engine running. With fuel costs unpredictable and often rising, regular small savings can go a long way. 

2. Solar roof kits can help to protect your van’s health 

Having a solar roof kit installed can also help to keep your van in top condition for longer. As we mentioned earlier, commercial vans can use a lot of extra power throughout the transport and delivery process, which can really impact their health and overall lifespan. A supply of solar power takes the pressure off the engine, the battery and the alternator, helping to prevent premature wear and tear. This means you can keep your van running smoothly while still powering essentials like tail lifts and fridge units, dodging untimely maintenance costs that can really affect your profit margins. This also helps you to prevent unforeseen breakdowns and downtime, which can impact your customers, your reputation and your wallet. 

3. Solar roof kits can help to decrease your environmental impact

Having a renewable, sustainable source of auxiliary energy from a solar roof kit is ideal for businesses that are conscious about their carbon footprint. As we touched on earlier, solar roof kits are a great way for commercial vans to continue using necessary power even when their engine is stopped – and with just one hour of idling producing up to 5.26 kg of CO₂, this can be really beneficial for the environment. Overall, conserving fuel and curbing idling on long-distance delivery routes helps to reduce harmful emissions and contributes towards cleaner air.

4. Solar roof kits provide more flexibility, so you can continue to meet demands on longer journeys 

Finally, for long-distance journeys, solar roof kits are great for providing the freedom and flexibility you need to keep meeting customer expectations. Saving fuel means that you’re less dependent on making regular fuel stops, enabling you to travel further and through more remote areas without worrying so much about refueling or being able to power your onboard equipment. If your cargo needs continuous power, like a fridge van, this also means that you can make comfort breaks throughout the journey with peace of mind, knowing that your load is protected. 

Those are the main points covered! Whether you’re convinced to try out a solar panel kit or not, we’re here to help you find your next delivery van easily and at a great price. Here at The Van Discount Company, we’re proud to stock a range of vans from leading manufacturers like Ford, Renault and Vauxhall. With an extensive variety of van types, sizes and fuel options on offer, we’re here to help you keep the wheels turning on your business. Interested? Visit our website or call us today on 01282 872 530, and our friendly team will be happy to help!