What’s Happening
ConMet eMobility has heralded a significant leap in sustainable logistics by announcing its partnership with Penske Logistics to deploy the first zero-emission refrigerated tractor-trailer. Penske Logistics, a third-party logistics provider, has achieved this milestone by successfully integrating an nMotion™ TR 160-45 reefer trailer with a Freightliner eCascadia electric semi-truck.
Why It Matters
This unique coupling serves as a game-changer for eco-friendly refrigerated transport. It amalgamates an all-electric tractor with a reefer trailer that utilizes an electric standby TRU (Transport Refrigeration Unit), powered by energy generated from in-wheel electric motors. This innovative technology, dubbed the PreSet Plus® eHub™, enables the nMotion system to generate power for the reefer while the vehicle is in motion, thus ensuring the cargo stays cold throughout the journey.
Key Points
Penske Logistics took the initiative to implement this advanced solution in Southern California for a quick service retail delivery route in February 2023. Covering over 160 miles with each trip and making eight delivery stops, the reefer has consistently demonstrated a 100% electric TRU run time. Since its deployment, the fleet has clocked more than 125 trips, covering over 20,000 miles and logging 2,500 TRU run hours. The most crucial aspect is the fleet’s ability to maintain cold cargo temperatures and on-time deliveries. Preliminary route performance data suggests that this reefer configuration could reduce annual TRU fuel consumption and cut direct CO2 emissions from the TRU by more than 40,000 pounds annually.
Jeff Jackson, Executive Vice President of Dedicated Contract Carriage at Penske Logistics, expressed satisfaction with the project’s success. He stated, “The pilot has been performing well, and our customer is excited about conducting direct store zero-emissions tailpipe deliveries on a daily basis.”
Bottom Line
ConMet eMobility’s commitment to developing innovative technologies that support fleet’s operational needs and electrification strategies is clear. Marc Trahand, Vice President and General Manager of ConMet eMobility, pledged to provide the necessary tools and customer care for the successful integration of these new technologies into daily operations. As part of their ongoing efforts to electrify the industry, ConMet eMobility plans to expand its trailer delivery schedule with other fleets throughout the year, thereby continuing its successful association with Penske Logistics and others.
