TIP launches world-first e-reefer trailer with solar and energy recovery

Dutch truck and trailer rental company TIP Group has created, together with SolarEdge e-Mobility and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport, the world’s first e-reefer trailer that combines solar, battery, and kinetic energy recovery, the Powered Trailer. This solution should provide emissions-free, temperature-controlled transport while also saving money.

So-called “reefer” trailers are temperature-controlled trailers mainly used for fresh food transport. They are usually powered by diesel generators to keep a constant temperature, even while parked. To save on emissions, e-reefer trailers are starting to become more popular. They use an electric cooling unit powered by solar panels on the trailer, kinetic energy recovery on the axle, or simply a rechargeable battery.

First, to combine solar, energy recovery, and battery power

This Powered Trailer by TIP Group is the first to combine all three technologies. It is a collaboration between TIP Group, SolarEdge e-Mobility (which provides solar panels, batteries and e-axle) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport Europe (which provides the TEF1500 electric cooling unit).

The TIP Group/SolarEdge e-Mobility e-reefer or Powered Trailer will first be tested by German transporter Zippel Fresh before more units become available for lease by the Dutch rental company / TIP Group

Combining batteries, solar panels, and energy recovery on one of the axles means that the Powered Trailer always gets clean energy while driving and parked. This reduces the need to connect to the power grid and saves on running costs while completely eliminating the need for fuel for the reefer trailer.

Test phase with Zippel Fresh

TIP Group is renting the first Powered Trailer to Zippel Fresh, a German transporter, who will test the all-in-one e-reefer solution in the coming months.

“The SolarEdge e-Mobility e-reefer helps companies reduce their carbon footprint and operational costs,” said Pavel Gilman, Senior Director of Sales & Marketing and Project Management at SolarEdge e-Mobility.

“The demand for sustainable logistics is increasing due to stricter regulations, social responsibility, and shifting public opinion. Companies that adopt these technologies comply with regulations and differentiate themselves in terms of sustainability within the industry.”

Comments

Ready to join the conversation?

You must be an active subscriber to leave a comment.

Subscribe Today

You Might Also Like