Carrier Transicold’s new ‘engineless’ reefer

Rather than a separate small diesel engine to power the refrigeration unit, Carrier Transicold’s latest ‘engineless’ 40XR and 50XR direct-drive truck refrigeration units rely entirely on power generated by the truck’s engine.

These XR models operate on a split system basis with the refrigerant compressor installed within the engine compartment, a slimline evaporator fixed to the cargo area ceiling and the condenser nose-mounted to the truck box above the cab.

Compared with Carrier’s previous X series, the new XR units are claimed to offer enhanced air management and higher airflow, leading to faster pulldown and more uniform temperature regulation within the cargo area.

“The R in XR represents refinements we’ve made inside and outside to deliver greater performance and reliability,” said Scott Parker, who is product manager for Carrier Transicold’s Truck Products division.

“For example, the unit condensers have been upgraded to our proven microchannel coil design for higher-efficiency heat transfer, weight savings, and added durability. 

“Condenser fans have been enhanced with maintenance-free brushless motors for better reliability.”

The 40XR is made for boxes 12 to 18 feet (3.7-5.5 metres) long and has an on-road capacity of 14,500 BTU/hour, while the 50XR is suited for trucks with cargo space up to 20 feet (6.1m) in length and has an on-road capacity of 17,000 BTU/hour.

Both models offer a ‘Cab Command 2’ digital controller that can be used to regulate the refrigeration unit from inside the driver’s compartment.

Aimed at grocery, food service, produce and pharmaceutical companies,  the new Carrier Transicold XR units are said to be suitable for both local and regional delivery and claims they make for a more fuel-efficient delivery vehicle and can help dramatically cut fleet emissions, especially when combined with modern vehicles and the latest high-efficiency engines.

“Sustainability is also improved when using the next-generation refrigerant R-452A, which has about half the global warming potential of R-404A, the refrigerant used with the prior models,” Mr Parker added.

“Plus, due to efficiency gains, the required refrigerant is reduced by more than 20 per cent.”

The new XR series engineless technology is also PIEK certified, which means it can function with less than 60dB noise output, making it compliant for deliveries made at night in metropolitan areas.

Carrier Transicold says the new XR series units support the company’s commitment to lower customer carbon footprints by more than one gigaton by 2030, as part of its Environmental, Social, and Governance goals.