Episode 5: The Future of Refrigerated Transport, Innovation and Taking Risks with Grant Turner cover art

Episode 5: The Future of Refrigerated Transport, Innovation and Taking Risks with Grant Turner

Episode 5: The Future of Refrigerated Transport, Innovation and Taking Risks with Grant Turner

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In Episode 5 of Doin’ the Business, Graham sits down with long-time friend and industry colleague Grant Turner, Managing Director of Protran Solutions.With more than 30 years of experience in transport refrigeration, Grant has taken a leap of faith, leaving an established career to launch his own business and introduce Sunswap's innovative battery-electric refrigeration technology to Australia.Graham and Grant discuss how Wickham Freight Lines became the first Australian transport operator to purchase a Sunswap unit, fitted to its brand-new FTE refrigerated trailer. They reflect on the extensive testing behind the technology, including a remarkable 1,671-kilometre trial that saw the unit operate for 38 hours with 67% battery remaining.The conversation explores how solar power, battery technology and artificial intelligence are changing refrigerated transport. From reducing diesel consumption and maintenance costs to improving loading practices, Grant explains why he believes this technology represents a major step forward for the industry.They also discuss the challenges of introducing new technology, accessing government funding and why smaller transport operators can often be quicker to embrace change.Grant shares his experience starting Protran Solutions, the financial risks involved, the importance of building strong relationships and balancing business growth with family life.Later, Graham asks Grant about his extraordinary career as a world champion water-ski racer, including racing at speeds exceeding 200 km/h and the serious accident in 2013 that changed his outlook on life.They finish by reflecting on their years of friendship, the people who helped shape their careers and a memorable trip to a potato farm in Ireland.Chapter Breakdown00:00 – Welcome and introducing Grant TurnerGraham introduces Grant, Managing Director of Protran Solutions, and reflects on their long-standing industry relationship.01:15 – Bringing Sunswap to AustraliaGrant explains how Sunswap was developed in the UK and how Wickham Freight Lines became its first Australian transport customer.02:45 – A record-breaking refrigeration trialA 1,671 km trial achieves 38 hours of battery-powered refrigeration with 67% battery remaining.03:30 – Testing the technology in the UKGrant shares what he learnt visiting Sunswap's factory and speaking with transport operators using the technology.06:15 – Why Sunswap suits Australian conditionsThey discuss Australia's solar potential and plans to operate Wickham's new trailer between Gympie and Brisbane.09:00 – Proving the technology on Australian roadsFrom interstate freight to B-doubles and road trains, Grant explains how Wickhams helped validate the system.12:00 – AI, telematics and smarter refrigerationHow sensors, real-time monitoring and AI help operators improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary energy consumption.15:15 – The cost of going electricGraham and Grant discuss upfront investment, diesel savings, maintenance costs and long-term financial benefits.18:00 – Battery life and reliabilityGrant answers questions about battery lifespan, solar panel durability, warranties and maintenance.21:00 – Sustainability and customer expectationsHow retailers, consumers and transport operators are influencing the shift towards cleaner refrigeration.23:15 – Refrigerating fresh produce and frozen freightGrant explains how Sunswap handles different loads, including meat, frozen goods and fresh produce.25:45 – Taking the leap into business ownershipGrant reflects on leaving an established career, backing new technology and launching Protran Solutions.30:00 – What happens when the sun isn't shining?Real-world testing demonstrates how the refrigeration system operates using battery power without direct sunlight.34:30 – The challenges of running a businessGrant discusses managing staff, growing nationally and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.36:30 – Government funding and transport innovationThe challenges of accessing financial support and helping smaller operators adopt electric technology.40:30 – Grant's world championship water-skiing careerFrom representing Australia to winning a world title in 2011 and racing at speeds exceeding 200 km/h.43:00 – A life-changing accidentGrant reflects on his serious 2013 racing accident, recovery and the mentors who helped shape his career.46:15 – The Irish potato farm storyGraham and Grant reminisce about an unexpected visit to a family-run potato farm in Ireland.49:00 – Friendship and looking to the futureGraham thanks Grant for joining the podcast and wishes him success with Protran Solutions and Sunswap.
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