Range Energy, a company specializing in building large-battery electric trailers to help fleets transition to electric vehicles, has recently announced partnerships with Thermo King and ESL Power Systems to bring its technology to refrigerated trailer units.
The innovative approach taken by Range Energy involves adding a battery and an electric motor e-axle to a semi truck trailer, rather than the tractor itself. This allows fleets to easily electrify their operations without having to invest in new tractors. While not a fully electric solution, this technology has been shown to reduce fuel usage by up to 36% in independent tests, while also providing benefits such as improved control over the trailer and regenerative braking.
During trials with Petaluma Egg Farm in Northern California, Range Energy saw a significant improvement in MPG for trucks using their electric trailer, ranging from 50-70%. The company is continuously exploring new applications for its technology, with a particular focus on refrigerated freight. By partnering with Thermo King and ESL Power Systems, Range Energy aims to reduce emissions and eliminate the need for separate engines to run refrigeration units.
Thermo King, a major player in the electrified truck industry, approached Range Energy due to the company’s ability to provide enough energy storage to power a refrigerated unit for extended periods. With a large 288kWh battery onboard, Range’s trailer can efficiently run a refrigeration unit, offering fleets the ability to keep their cargo cold for a full day without the need for shore power.
ESL Power Systems, on the other hand, specializes in modular shore power solutions, making it easier for fleets to install high-powered charging infrastructure. By plugging into one of ESL’s systems, Range Energy trailers can charge at up to 50kW, providing a 5-6 hour charge time for the 288kWh battery.
While Thermo King trials have already been conducted, ESL Power Systems partnerships are in the works and will be trialed soon. Range Energy is aiming to deliver its first customer orders by the end of this year or the beginning of next year.
In conclusion, Range Energy’s innovative approach to electrifying trailer units, combined with strategic partnerships with industry leaders like Thermo King and ESL Power Systems, is set to revolutionize the way fleets operate, reducing emissions, fuel usage, and maintenance costs while increasing efficiency and sustainability in the transportation industry.
