Thermo King showcases AxlePower technology for eTRUs

Thermo King recently premiered a trailer refrigeration system with zero direct carbon emissions at an international trade show in Lyon, France.

The company’s AxlePower technology combines a fully electric refrigeration unit, highly efficient battery storage, and the ability to run on low or zero-emissions power sources, such as an axle energy recovery system, shore power, or hybrid system. The sustainable battery enables the refrigeration unit to operate autonomously and keep the cargo at optimal temperature, even when the vehicle is not running, Thermo King said.

“Safe, sustainable transport of foods, medicines and vaccines is more critical than ever,” said Francesco Incalza, president of Thermo King Europe, Middle East, and Africa. “Temperature-controlled transport is subject to the highest operational safety requirements. Our technology can ensure sensitive goods stay at the required temperature, while reducing energy, emissions, and noise—all important to a sustainable future.

“We’re proud to continue to deliver breakthrough technology, which supports our customers’ sustainability goals and our ‘Gigaton Challenge’ to reduce customer carbon emissions by one gigaton by 2030.”

The new solution delivers immediate and long-term sustainability benefits while reducing operating costs, the company said. With zero direct emissions and silent operation, it enables inner-city deliveries, including in Ultra-low Emission Zones (ULEZs). Intelligent energy management ensures there are always enough battery reserves, even on long journeys or in traffic jams. If necessary, the system can also harvest energy from the tractive power of the trailer. All components are monitored in real time by a Thermo King telematics system.

Thermo King showcased the AxlePower zero-direct emission trailer refrigeration unit powered by BPW’s ePower system Nov. 16-20 at the Solutrans international trade show. Currently in the testing phase, this integrated system recovers energy generated when the vehicle is rolling, sailing, or braking and stores it in Thermo King’s battery to power the refrigeration system. This system is tractor-independent and compatible with all Thermo King trailer refrigeration units.

The company also showcased its E200 fully electric unit for small vans and trucks, and the new Advancer Hybrid refrigeration unit, the latest addition to the Advancer A-Series trailer range, which seamlessly switches between the primary electric operating mode to engine power when needed.

“At Trane Technologies, sustainability is at the center of everything we do as we challenge what’s possible for the industry, and the world,” Incalza said. “For decades, Thermo King has led the industry in electrification of transport refrigeration, and we continue to relentlessly innovate in support of our customers, our communities and our planet.”

Thermo King has committed to invest more than $100 million over the next three years to deliver a fully electric product in every segment of the cold chain by 2023 in EMEA and 2025 in the Americas.