Electric TRUs, Diesel Hybrids Pave Path for Reefer Transport

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Trailer manufacturers like Carrier Transicold are moving toward improvements that meet sustainability and performance goals. (Carrier Transicold)

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The transport refrigeration unit (TRU) is continuing to serve as a reliable component of the refrigerated transport system, yet its evolution is just beginning. According to current insights, the TRU market is anticipated to witness a gradual transformation as it balances tradition with emerging technologies. Manufacturers are tuning their efforts to elevate the efficiency, power, and environmental standards of diesel variants while offering innovative solutions.

The rise of electric TRUs hinges on various factors, such as battery weight, availability of shore power, and necessary infrastructure upgrades. However, the suitability of the operating environment and specific use cases appears to be critical factors influencing this shift.

Paul Kroes, who oversees trailer innovations at Thermo King, describes the industry's transition as a phased process. “Phase 1 encompasses hybrid TRUs that maintain full diesel support but are optimized for shore power. In Phase 2, the TRU is mainly powered electrically, with a minor diesel unit engaging only for battery recharging,” he elaborated. Kroes expects that in the final phase, TRUs will be fully electric, potentially utilizing technologies like “e-axles” to recharge the battery while in transit.

Nevertheless, such advancements come with their own set of challenges. “Considering the limitations of existing battery technology, it is necessary to generate power and recharge the batteries when not stationed,” Kroes expressed, noting current constraints related to battery capacity and insufficient charging infrastructure.

The Surge of All-Electric Solutions

Despite the existing technical hurdles, companies such as Thermo King and Carrier Transicold are eager to evolve their product lines to include both cutting-edge diesel-powered TRUs and their initial iterations of fully electric models.

Bill Maddox, Carrier Transicold’s senior product development manager, highlights that these innovations focus on compliance with regulations and achieving sustainability without sacrificing performance. His company offers advanced diesel TRUs like the X4 and Vector series, which utilize a refined version of existing engines to enhance fuel efficiency by 5 to 10 percent while significantly curtailing emissions. These units adhere to the California Air Resources Board’s standards, achieving a remarkable 96 percent reduction in emissions compared to previous designs.

On the electric front, Carrier has launched the eCool brand, which includes the following models:

• The Neos 200e, designed for lighter deliveries
• The Supra eCool series, suited for medium-duty tasks
• The Vector eCool, an all-electric TRU that generates power via an in-wheel electric motor

Furthermore, Truck leasing giant Penske, in collaboration with Daimler, has released a Carrier Transicold-equipped, all-electric Class 7 refrigerated truck for lease. This development comes as Penske Logistics ranks high on the Transport Topics Top 100 carriers in North America.

Thermo King also presents a diverse array of diesel and all-electric TRUs, including auxiliary powered solutions. Its Precedent S750i serves as a hybrid diesel-electric option for trailers, while the e200 and e300 units cater to Classes 1-4 and Classes 2-4 trucks respectively. Additionally, the company is evaluating hybrid solutions for refrigerated trailers, with trial tests showing promising outcomes in terms of reduced carbon emissions and fuel usage.

Overcoming Obstacles

Steve Bennett, president and COO of Utility Trailer Manufacturing Co., reflects on the market's evolution over decades, emphasizing the importance of addressing core customer needs, including energy efficiency, usage of less fuel, and improved cooling capabilities. His company recently launched their Schmitz Cargobull line, unveiling the 625 Hybrid and 655MT Hybrid models, both optimized for lower emissions and fuel consumption.

Bennett expresses his belief that hybrid units will lead the way in market acceptance, largely due to their compatibility with dock-side shore power, which eliminates local diesel emissions at a fraction of diesel's operational cost.

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However, the limited uptake of shore power can be attributed to the high costs of upgrading local electric infrastructure and the need for drivers to adapt to new practices. Moreover, regulatory measures might push industries towards greater electrification.

The coveted goal is a TRU that features affordable, durable battery packs with the ability to recharge while in use. “Given the modest number of electric TRUs in circulation and the current technological constraints, the industry is set for a slow transition towards broader acceptance of electric innovations,” Bennett shared.

Innovations in trailer design also play a role as manufacturers aim to reduce operating costs and optimize payload capacity. Tim Schmeits from Great Dane highlights that demand for more interior space and improved weight savings is paramount. New products like ThermoGuard are aimed at counteracting insulation degradation and moisture retention, significant issues that affect trailer longevity.

Great Dane remains neutral concerning TRU choices, assuring compatibility with both Thermo King and Carrier’s setups.

Moving Forward

Cautious fleet operators are observing the development of hybrid and all-electric TRUs; however, a widespread switch to fully electric systems is unlikely without considerable shifts in investment or operational logistics. Adoption is expected to favor hybrid solutions in the interim. Meanwhile, greater technological advancements are enabling fleets to handle operations more effectively.

David Melton from R.E. Garrison Trucking emphasizes that real-time telematics enhances operational awareness, enabling swift adjustments to TRU performance and alleviating tasks from drivers.

Rear-Tracking capabilities and adjusting temperature remotely provide a practical advantage, enabling drivers to concentrate on the road while maintaining load integrity.

At Target, Ryan Magyar indicates that the store’s fleet of 2,000 trailers is primarily outfitted with Utility trailers and Thermo King diesel-powered TRUs, and there is a growing trend of retrofitting diesel units to hybrids. “This strategy allows us to test and gain insights before committing to a full transition,” he explained.

However, the wide variety of TRUs complicates the integration of telematics on a unified management platform.

Not every carrier is quick to embrace electric technology. For example, Prime Inc., America’s largest longhaul reefer carrier, relies heavily on Diesel TRUs to meet their stringent operational demands — even acknowledging the shortcomings of electric models in long-haul scenarios. While hybrid options are seen positively for regional use, the practicality remains constrained by current technology.

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