New electric motor for milk tankers reduces emissions.

Each time milk tankers collect from farms, unnecessary carbon dioxide emissions are generated. This is because oversized diesel engines are used to power the pump that transfers milk into the truck.

To change this, an electric system for the milk pump has been developed, reducing diesel consumption by up to 5,000 litres per truck annually. The solution also lowers noise levels and emissions at farms.

With tankers operating their pumps for around 1,000 hours per year, fuel costs and engine wear are significant. By introducing a battery-powered electric motor, both diesel usage and mechanical strain on the engine are reduced.

Tine, one of Norway’s leading dairy companies, is now planning to install the solution across its fleet of 250 vehicles.

– Frode Eggan at Norwegian dairy Tine

If adopted more widely, the potential is significant. Across the EU, more than 120 million litres of diesel could be saved each year. The technology can also be applied in other transport and logistics contexts.

The project is carried out in close partnership between Tine, Enova and Knightec Group.

The battery for the electric motor is charged while the vehicle is in motion, similar to a standard car battery. It provides enough energy to power functions such as defrosters, lights and windscreen wipers – ensuring both driver comfort and safety.

During operation, the electric pumping system generates very little noise. This significantly reduces disturbance at farms while milk is being collected.