At the Solutrans Carrier Transicold unveils [R]eCool: a unique solution developed to convert existing Vector diesel refrigeration units with E-Drive technology installed on semi-trailers into a 100% electric refrigeration solution powered by a high-capacity battery. Thanks to its exclusive E-Drive technology, the hybrid [R]eCool solution can also be recharged via the Vector's generator set.
[R]eCool has been developed with the concept of reusing, reprocessing and recycling, offering substantial fuel savings and realistic, sustainable returns on investment. The retrofit solution is also available with the use of a secondhand battery, extending the life of the battery, supporting zero direct emissions and reducing waste.
"Thanks to our 20+ years of experience of E-Drive electricity generation technology, Carrier Transicold is best positioned to offer this significant innovation,” said Victor Calvo, Vice President & General Manager, International Truck Trailer, Carrier Transicold. “[R]eCool enables our existing customers to convert their Vector diesel refrigeration units into a 100% electric, flexible and fully autonomous solution, perfectly suited to the constraints of urban traffic."
The objectives of the retrofit solution are to remove emissions directly linked to the use of diesel engines in refrigeration systems, including carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, and to considerably reduce noise emissions, allowing customers’ vehicles to enter low emission zones (LEZs). The solution also makes it possible to keep existing vehicles compatible with current and future climatic and regulatory guidelines.
Carrier Transicold Announces Innovative Solution Compatible with New Refrigerant and B100 Biofuel
Carrier Transicold has unveiled a new version of its Vector HE 19 unit, designed to reduce the carbon output of its flagship temperature-controlled trailer system. An initial prototype is undergoing in-depth testing with Fraikin and Martin Brower, two existing customers.
Underlining Carrier Transicold’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, this new version of the Vector HE 19 can run on a new refrigerant with a lower global warming potential (GWP), to significantly reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions without compromising performance. The system is also compatible with B100 biofuel. Customers will be able to use the new low-GWP refrigerant and the B100 fuel in combination or separately. The new lower GWP refrigerant can deliver an 88% CO2 savings over the standard R452A refrigerant. With refrigerant accounting for around 15% of a conventional refrigeration unit’s total CO2 emissions, this represents a significant reduction.
The B100 biofuel, typically derived from recycled vegetable oils, animal fats or cooking oils, alone reduces the carbon emissions of the newly modified Vector HE 19 by between 60% and 91%, depending on the type of B100 used, compared with a standard diesel unit. Combined with the low-GWP refrigerant, the system can deliver a total minimum reduction of 73% in CO2 emissions over a year of use.
As with all Carrier Transicold Vector HE 19 units, the system combines the company’s all-electric E-Drive technology with a refined, multi-speed engine.
The innovative design of Carrier Transicold’s Vector HE 19 also delivers optimized airflow management to maximize performance. The system harnesses the Coanda effect – which helps cool air ‘stick’ to the roof of the trailer – to ensure consistent temperature control throughout, helping to maintain the integrity of the cold chain. With the unit also being PIEK-compliant, the system delivers the ultimate solution to tightening urban emissions and noise regulations.
Initially planned for the French market, production of the new Carrier Transicold Vector HE 19 unit is expected to start in 2024 and will be available in both mono- and multi-temperature configurations.
