ConMet eMobility announced that Penske Logistics has become the first third-party logistics provider to pair an nMotion TR 160-45 equipped reefer trailer with a Freightliner eCascadia electric Class 8 truck. The pairing, according to ConMet, combines an all-electric tractor with a reefer trailer cooled by an electric standby TRU that is powered by energy generated from in-wheel electric motors. Leveraging this in-wheel PreSet Plus eHub technology, the nMotion system generates power for the reefer whenever the vehicle is in motion to keep valuable cargo cold mile after mile, as noted by the company.
Penske Logistics first deployed this solution on a quick service retail delivery route in Southern California in February. Covering over 160 miles each trip with eight delivery stops, the reefer has been able to consistently achieve 100% electric TRU run time, according to the company’s recent press release. Since first deployed, the fleet has completed more than 125 trips, covering over 20,000 miles and 2,500 TRU run hours, while maintaining cold cargo temperature and on-time deliveries, according to the press release.
Based on initial route performance, this reefer configuration could reduce annual TRU fuel consumption and decrease direct CO2 emissions from the TRU by more than 40,000 pounds per year, the company estimates.
