ECOOLTEC has developed connection solutions that allow its electrically driven transport refrigeration units to be fitted to most common battery-electric HGV models.
The systems can draw power from an electric truck battery, from the vehicle engine through ECOOLTEC’s integrated alternator, or from a mains connection. In battery operation, the units produce no local pollutant or CO2 emissions, while operation through the ECOOLTEC alternator can reduce emissions by up to 98% compared with widely used diesel refrigeration units.
ECOOLTEC uses natural refrigerants with a maximum Global Warming Potential of 1. The company said fluorinated refrigerants such as R452A and R410A, which have been predominantly used to date, have GWP values above 2,000.
The refrigeration systems can connect to either AC or DC electric power take-offs. DC ePTOs supply between 400 and 800 V, while communication between the refrigeration system and the vehicle drivetrain must be configured through brand-specific CAN bus protocols agreed with each truck manufacturer. These protocols are intended to maintain cooling during operating conditions including vehicle charging or shutdown.
“The time required for the initial development, integration and testing of our systems varies from one vehicle brand to another and can range from a few days to several weeks,” said Holger Dörre, CTO of ECOOLTEC. He added that the company currently covers six brands, with a seventh expected to follow.
