Carrier celebrates 25 years of electric technology

Hanover, Germany: Carrier Transicold is presenting its latest electric and connected refrigeration at IAA Transportation 2024, in Hanover, Germany. And the chance for operators attending the show to own one of just 25 numbered Vector HE 17 units, with a unique design.

It marks Carrier Transicold’s 25 years of making its E-Drive technology, with nearly 300,000 units sold since launch.

“We’re proud to celebrate 25 years of innovation with our E-Drive technology,” said Victor Calvo, vice president and general manager, international truck and trailer, Carrier Transicold.

“This technology has revolutionised refrigerated transport and continues to set new standards in performance and energy efficiency. Thanks to our E-Drive architecture, Carrier Transicold is exceptionally well-positioned to lead the transition towards full electrification, showcasing a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach that sets the benchmark for the industry we serve.

“Carrier Transicold is not only able to offer engineless solutions across all segments, but is also at the forefront of integrating connected technologies and the use of low-climate-impact refrigerants.”

The E-Drive story began in 1999 with the first Vector 1800 fridge for trailers. The technology used a semi-hermetic compressor to eliminate the mechanical transmissions of belt-driven refrigeration systems, converting the energy from the motor into electricity to power the unit. Designed to offer the best performance in terms of total cost of ownership and reliability, the E-Drive technology ensured high temperature accuracy, cut refrigerant leakage rates by up to 50%, eliminated 17 parts to considerably reduce maintenance time and helped to reduce fuel consumption.

In 2010, Carrier launched an enhanced version in the first Vector 1550s. This iteration featured a fully hermetic scroll compressor, elevating refrigeration efficiency while significantly reducing consumption, noise and, as a result, further lowering the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of the units, Carrier says.

Building on this innovation, in 2018 Carrier launched the High Efficiency range, starting with the Vector HE 19. This new model incorporated a further refined refrigeration system, complete with a new evaporator air management system. This advancement brought about additional reductions in power consumption and noise levels, simultaneously boosting the unit’s performance in maintaining the cold chain.

Today, Carrier has a third generation of E-Drive architecture, featuring advanced inverter technology that modifies the compressor speed according to real-time temperature requirements in the box. The new Vector HE 17 offers best-in-class total cost of ownership, over 16kW of cooling capacity, alongside a reduction of 30% in fuel consumption and 6dB in noise emissions, for a sound perception decrease of more than 50%, compared to the Vector 1550.

At IAA, Carrier Transicold is unveiling a limited edition of this high-performance system that allows customers the opportunity to own one of just 25 numbered Vector HE 17 units, with a unique eye-catching design, available for purchase only during the show. Acquiring this distinct model will set companies apart on the road, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and innovation, Carrier says.