Carrier Transicold has launched Vector eCool, the first fully autonomous, electric refrigerated trailer system, to UK and Europe. It is said to reduce emissions, improve sustainability and increase efficiency in the refrigerated transport sector.
Vector eCool features Carrier Transicold’s E-Drive electric technology and an energy recovery and storage system. This traps kinetic energy generated by the trailer – either through axle rotation or under braking – and transforms it into electricity that can be used to power the refrigeration unit, instead of relying on traditional diesel power. This fully autonomous system produces zero direct emissions. An energy management system balances energy recovery and battery utilisation and charging, ensuring efficient running and optimised refrigeration capacity. When parked, the eCool system can also be plugged-in and fully charged in under four hours.
Carrier Transicold International Truck & Trailer president, Victor Calvo, said, “We believe the Vector eCool represents the future of refrigerated trailer technology. The launch follows years of research and development, including extensive real-world testing with prototypes operating in customer fleets.”
The new autonomous trailer system is suitable for operation with the engineless versions of Carrier Transicold’s Vector HE 19 and Vector 1550 E. The company states that further efficiency and emissions benefits are obtained through the unit’s light weight: when used with the flagship Vector HE 19 unit, even taking into account the weight of axle generators and battery pack, the Vector eCool weighs less than a standard diesel unit with a full tank of fuel.
