ECOOLTEC's TM182 System Chosen by Brakes for UK Food Service
Brakes, a British food service specialist, selected the TM182 transport refrigeration system from ECOOLTEC Grosskopf GmbH, recognizing its exceptional environmental compatibility and operational reliability. The first vehicle featuring this system was already in use. ECOOLTEC showcased the Brakes vehicle during the Cold Chain Hub at the NEC Birmingham.
Brakes, a subsidiary of Sysco, opted for the TM182 unit due to its environmental benefits and future-proof access to natural refrigerants, ensuring reliable operation. Systems relying on chemical refrigerants face challenges from the F-Gas Regulation, which limits refrigerants with high greenhouse potential.
The first truck, a DAF LF260, operated on a purely electric, emission-free drive and served the Northeast Midlands from Brakes’ Newark depot. Designed for up to 20 deliveries a day, it featured a multi-temp body partitioned for fresh and frozen goods. The system employed ECOOLTEC’s dual discharge E1312 evaporator for fresh produce, the E1221 evaporator for frozen items, and the proprietary G30 alternator to power the refrigeration unit.
This setup offered nearly emission-free and CO2-free local operation, reducing emissions by up to 98% compared to diesel systems via alternator drive. The use of natural refrigerants like CO2 and propene minimized climate impact, unlike conventional fluorocarbons with high Global Warming Potential, such as R452A and R410A.
During the Cold Chain Hub from, ECOOLTEC displayed Brakes' truck and introduced new products, including the dual discharge flat evaporator E1312, the optimized E1221, and a new TM182 housing. These innovations enhanced airflow, heat transmission, and energy efficiency. Visitors could also experience the ECOOLTEC remote control, which standardized the operating concept.
The special requirements of temperature-controlled transport necessitate versatile mounting options. The system could be installed in various positions, including the driver's cab, on the front bulkhead, as well as at the rear of the vehicle body.
CoolKit Unveiled Innovative Temperature-Controlled Solutions at TCS&D Cold Chain Hub
CoolKit, the UK's leading temperature-controlled transport specialist, exhibited at the TCS&D Cold Chain Hub at the NEC, Birmingham. The event, dedicated to cold storage and distribution, featured CoolKit’s latest innovations, particularly from its Melform portable refrigerator range.
Amidst a record high output for the year, CoolKit introduced the first-ever refrigerated conversion of a Ford E-Transit Custom. This custom electric vehicle emphasized sustainability, featuring CoolKit's load-optimizing features and the market's lightest pbx fridge, tailored for electromobility.
In addition to the Ford E-Transit Custom, CoolKit presented a Volkswagen Crafter and a bespoke box-body van created for a major supermarket client. Attendees at stand G30 participated in a jigsaw challenge to win prizes.
Cameron Javed, Head of Technical Sales at CoolKit, expressed enthusiasm about the showcase: "It was an exciting time for CoolKit. We looked forward to unveiling our latest conversions and sustainable solutions to the industry."
CoolKit, accredited by all major OEMs including Ford, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, continued to lead in light commercial vehicle conversions. The company strengthened industry connections and revealed its pioneering solutions at the event.
Sunswap Unveiled First Production Unit at Cold Chain Hub 2024
Sunswap, a leader in sustainable transportation solutions, debuted its zero-emission transport refrigeration unit, Endurance, at the Cold Chain Hub 2024 during the TCS&D show in Birmingham on October 9-10. This debut marked the culmination of four years of intensive research and development, resulting in a fully-electric solution aimed at transforming the cold chain industry.
The Endurance unit displayed at the show represented a significant milestone for Sunswap, transitioning from 30 successful trials to full-scale production. It was soon to be delivered to DFDS, one of Europe’s leading shipping and logistics companies, and was expected to be operational on roads within weeks.
Endurance combined advanced battery technology and trailer-top solar power, which provided power to extend the range of the electric fridge and reduce grid charging. These innovations enabled significant reductions in operating costs and environmental impact without compromising performance or reliability.
Sunswap also became the first-ever Headline Sponsor of the TCS&D Awards, which, in their 11th year, celebrated innovation and excellence in the cold supply chain.
“We were thrilled to be the headline sponsor of the TCS&D Awards 2024,” said Michael Lowe, CEO of Sunswap. “This was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate outstanding achievements in the temperature-controlled storage and distribution sector.” Sunswap launched Endurance, its zero-emission transport refrigeration solution that offered a viable alternative to diesel, at a series of events across Europe that summer. “After two years of successful trials, this was a big moment for us,” explained Michael. “With the first deliveries of Endurance to customers, we wanted to celebrate with the industry and acknowledge the fantastic leaders driving innovation and excellence.”
