Sono Solar, a subsidiary of Germany-based Sono Group N.V., and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport Europe (MTTE) have introduced a fully integrated solar-powered system for electric trailer refrigeration units (eTRUs). The new solution combines MTTE’s TEF1500 eTRU and battery pack with Sono Solar’s high-efficiency photovoltaic modules and charge controller.
Designed for semi-trailers, the system aims to reduce diesel usage and CO₂ emissions in temperature-controlled logistics by providing continuous solar charging to extend battery autonomy. According to the companies, the integration addresses rising demand in European logistics for low-emission, cost-effective refrigeration technologies.
A demonstration trailer equipped with the full system is now available for fleet trials. The partners are also exploring expansion of the concept to additional vehicle classes, such as light commercial vehicles.
“We’re excited to elevate our collaboration with a renowned partner like MTTE,” said Jan Schiermeister, Managing Director of Sono Solar. “Together we can offer one of the first truly integrated solar solutions for trailer refrigeration in Europe, backed by MTTE’s strong engineering expertise and service network.”
“We clearly see the future of transport refrigeration in electrically driven cooling units with solar integrated on the vehicle roof,” added Björn Reckhorn, Managing Director of MTTE.
