eNow recently unveiled its first all-electric solar-based refrigeration system, developed in association with Volta Power Systems, on a 53-foot trailer.
Solar panels and lithium ion battery packs power the trailer cooling system, significantly reducing emissions, sound and operation expenses, eNow said.
The refrigerated trailer includes three of the largest Volta modules, totaling 75 kWh of power, enough energy to run the trailer for a full day of deliveries. The lithium ion system is recharged by eNow‘s proprietary 5.4KW solar panels permanently adhered to the top of the trailer, and its patented charge controller.
The advanced photovoltaic panels are lightweight and flexible, yet sturdy enough to withstand the natural elements. The battery bank can also charge on-site, using shore power during loading.
“Our case studies have shown that solar electric trailers can reduce operation and maintenance expenses by 90 percent,” said Jeff Flath, eNow president and CEO. “With over 500,000 refrigerated trailers in the U.S. alone, the savings combined with lower emissions can disrupt the refrigerated logistics industry.”
The solar electric system runs quietly and reduces both fuel costs and emissions, the company said. eNow case studies show the solar electric trailers reduce 98 percent of nitrous oxide emissions, 86 percent of carbon dioxide and 97 percent in particulate matter.
“With over 75kWh of power available, the trailer can make all of the it’s stops for the day without the noise and emissions of a traditional diesel cooling system,” said Jack Johnson, co-founder Volta Power Systems. “Our system uses a third of the space and a sixth of the weight compared to traditional battery systems, meaning more space for product and lower fuel consumption.
The Volta Power packs utilize automotive-grade Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (NMC) technology to deliver the highest energy density on the market.
The solar electric trailer debuted at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in Long Beach CA.