Reefer trailer refrigeration unit powered by solar, battery and regeneration

Powered semi-trailers, which carry batteries and electric motors to take some of the load of the tractor, are emerging as a cost-effective way to extend the range of an electric semi (or improve the fuel efficiency of a legacy tractor). Now a three-way partnership is testing a related concept—using electricity to power the refrigeration unit in a reefer trailer.

Lease and rental specialist TIP Group, Italy-based SolarEdge e-Mobility, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport Europe are testing a solar-powered e-reefer with an energy recuperation axle. This e-reefer, which bears the rather unimaginative name Powered Trailer, integrates three energy sources—battery, solar and regeneration—to power the refrigeration unit.

The fully electric Mitsubishi TEF1500 refrigeration unit, which features efficient inverter technology, replaces the diesel engine normally used for trailer refrigeration with an electric-powered solution. TIP Group is renting this eco-friendly and cost-effective solution to Zippel Fresh, which will pilot the solution over the coming months.

“The SolarEdge e-Mobility e-reefer is the first of its kind to combine and test all three power sources—battery, solar, and energy recuperation—into a single solution. This unique setup allows us to deliver proven, effective solutions directly to fleet operators. By testing and validating these technologies ourselves, we empower our customers to focus on their core business while taking a significant step towards reducing fuel consumption and operational costs,” said Rogier Laan, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at TIP Group.

Source: TIP Group, Sustainable Truck & Van

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