As part of its sustainability strategy, Rokbak has implemented a set of ambitious goals in operating measures, articulated hauler design and construction that also help to improve the total cost of ownership (TCO) of its machines.
As part of the Volvo Group, Rokbak is aligned to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Specific aims include a 30 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide by 2030, a 50 per cent factory operations emission reduction by the same year and becoming net-zero by 2040.
“A lot of work has gone into our sustainability drive over the years,” said Charlie Urquhart, Rokbak Product Manager. “Rokbak’s heritage, knowledge and resources mean that we’re constantly developing and looking to improve the trucks and the way we operate, in a manner that benefits our customers.”
Sustainable by design
These goals have influenced the design of Rokbak trucks, the daily operation of the Rokbak Motherwell factory and a strict adherence to the Rokbak sustainability roadmap.
The effort to reduce environmental impact has seen Rokbak employ several strategies, including fuel consumption analysis, examining alternative fuels, extending maintenance cycles and reducing maintenance consumables. Furthermore, this research and development in sustainability has led to the reduction of TCO for Rokbak customers.
“We are creating significant steppingstones towards a sustainable future,” Urquhart said. “And this not only results in less waste being generated, but also benefits the Rokbak customer’s wallet.”
Fuel consumption is the biggest cost of operating a machine and the Rokbak RA30 and RA40 EU Stage V engines produce a fuel consumption saving of up to 7 per cent, compared to the previous engines. This means lower operating costs and less impact on the environment.
Rokbak’s articulated haulers both have lean burning engines and a confirmed low-fuel consumption. The RA40 has a class-leading transmission fluid change interval of 6,000 hours, while the RA30 offers 4,000 hours.
HVO
As well, both the RA30 and RA40 are compatible with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), a fuel that allows customers a ‘quick-hit’ on their individual net-zero targets. HVO, also known as renewable or green diesel, is a paraffinic bio-based diesel fuel originating from animal fats or multiple vegetable oils, such as waste cooking oil, rapeseed oil or palm oil.
HVO fuel has similar chemical and physical properties as diesel fuel, however, its fossil-free composition and low carbon content differentiate it from diesel and make it an option to those seeking a sustainable fuel.
It is a modern way to produce high-quality bio-based diesel fuels without compromising fuel logistics, engines, exhaust aftertreatment devices or exhaust emissions. HVO can provide up to a 90 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions on a well-to-wheel analysis.
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Extensive periods between scheduled maintenance, with infrequent parts and fluid changes, translates to less material going to landfill. Maintenance and fault alerts allow customers to keep on top of the truck and be informed of the machine’s next required servicing. Instigating the ordering of parts in advance and getting the labour in place increases operational efficiency, not only improving sustainability measures but also reduces TCO.
“When the customer buys a Rokbak hauler, they are acquiring a hauler that has been developed with sustainability in mind,” Urquhart said.
“It is a hauler that has been manufactured on a site powered by green energy and redirects waste away from landfill.”
Rokbak factory
Today, the Rokbak factory is completely powered by sustainable sources. Working towards accreditation on a zero-waste-to-landfill policy, 95 per cent of generated waste is now diverted away from landfill.
Within the facility, everyone from the factory floor to the head office has an eye on energy reduction. Internal trackers inform Rokbak employees how much energy has been used in comparison to the previous week and “green champions” are recruited from throughout the business to promote sustainable practices in their respective work areas.
“It’s to make sure everyone’s doing their bit,” Urquhart said. “Whether you’re monitoring power tools usage or remembering to switch off the lights and air conditioning, you’re part of a united drive.”
