Thermo King launches refrigeration unit for electric light commercial vehicles

Thermo King has announced production of its flagship electrical refrigeration unit, the E-500e, designed specifically to appeal to cold chain logistics operators of electric light commercial vehicles (eLCVs), particularly those operating in urban areas. 

A standout feature of the E-500e is its direct power supply from the vehicle’s battery, eliminating the need for additional batteries or charging cables. This design both streamlines operations and enables drivers to maintain refrigeration functionality while the eLCV is charging.

Custom inverter technology, a patented power control system and real-time communication with the vehicle help the E-500e enhance cooling performance while ensuring minimal impact on the eLCV’s battery and range.

Featuring a high-speed compressor that functions independent of vehicle speed, the E-500e offers up to 4.5kW of cooling capacity and both single- and multi-temperature models are available, each with cooling and heating modes to accommodate various applications.

Designed for easy installation on panel vans, chassis cab trucks, and other vehicle conversions, Thermo King says the E-500e delivers optimal performance in a compact package. It weighs half as much as traditional units, reducing the impact on the vehicle’s range while maximising payload capacity.

Thermo King product manager Davide Fusciani highlighted the significance of the new E-500e model at a time when the European Union is calling for a 90 per cent cut in CO2 emissions from new trucks by 2040.

“We give our customers solutions that help them align with this transition and future-proof their operations,” he said, adding that Thermo King has more in the pipeline.

According to Thermo King, the E-500e complies with existing and upcoming regulations for Low Emission Zones (LEZ), Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ), Zero Emission Zones (ZEZ), and regions with diesel restrictions.

“The E-Series is not only 100 per cent electric but also energy-efficient at its core, offering unmatched cooling capacity ideal for urban environments,” said Mr Fusciani. 

“As the European Union sets ambitious targets for reducing truck emissions, our E-500e unit provides customers with solutions to align with this transition and future-proof their operations.”