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Thermo King plugs into refrigerated transport innovation at IAA

Thermo King has unveiled the first fully telematics-enabled refrigerated trailer unit at the IAA Show today (21 September).

Called the SLXi, Thermo King says it can deliver up to 20% fuel savings compared to its predecessor, thanks to customisable profile conditions for each application.

Available as single- and multi-temperature refrigeration units, the SLXi also offers enhanced temperature control with the SR-3 Controller giving both set point control and temperature displays in increments of 0.1 degrees Celsius.

The unit can also be accessed remotely: a Thermo King BlueBox communication device collects data, which is then accessible via a free smartphone app or Bluetooth-enabled device. Users can manage defrost, pre-trip, set point and additional operating mode settings remotely without a contract or subscription.

The range also incorporates features to boost users’ environmental credentials, including lower engine speeds and fuel consumption due to the 27% larger condenser coil, and a 15% cut in NOx emissions.

Also making its debut at IAA is the Hybrid Drive Trailer concept, which combines the expertise and technologies of Thermo King and Frigoblock.

The Thermo King Hybrid Drive allows a refrigerated semi-trailer attached to a tractor with a Frigoblock Enviro Drive inverter filter to run electrically – enabling the trailer refrigeration unit to be powered as a hybrid drive, by either the electric alternator or through its own diesel engine.

The result, says Thermo King, is a solution that could save 5,000 litres of fuel per year for an operator with an intensive distribution application.

The standard TK BlueBox telematics system stores data and enables two-way communication to ensure the load is protected at all times, and the geo-location feature will automatically switch the power between diesel and truck Enviro Drive as required or necessary.

In another first, Thermo King is showcasing the UT Spectrum, extending its UT-Series of under-mount refrigeration units for truck and drawbar trailer applications.

Designed for distributors who need multiple temperature zones, the UT Spectrum offers two or three compartment configurations for fresh and frozen goods.

The low-emission, low-noise unit comes with R-452A refrigerant as standard.

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