TIP unveils solar-powered electric reefer

NETHERLANDS: TIP Group, the transportation and logistics company, has unveiled an advanced electric reefer that integrates multiple renewable energy sources – battery, solar, and energy recuperation.

The Powered Trailer is the result of a collaboration between TIP Group, SolarEdge e-Mobility and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport Europe GmbH.

SolarEdge e-Mobility, a pioneer in smart energy solutions, ensures that the system maximises the use of renewable power sources.

The solar roof plays a primary role in supplying energy, covering between 20-120% of the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries cooling unit’s energy needs, depending on the customer’s usage profile, outside temperatures, and solar radiation. 

An energy recuperation axle complements this by capturing kinetic energy during transit – particularly during braking – and converting it into electricity to provide additional power when solar energy alone is insufficient. 

This energy is then stored in a high-capacity battery system, ensuring a reliable power source for the refrigeration unit. The system is designed to optimise efficiency, with different recuperation modes that allow operators to adjust energy capture based on driving conditions and battery status. The battery can be charged via the solar roof, the recuperation axle or an external grid connection.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport Europe GmbH provides the all-electric refrigeration unit, optimised to work seamlessly with the trailer’s energy ecosystem. The use of highly efficient inverter technology ensures that no energy is wasted. 

The Powered Trailer is currently undergoing a pilot programme with Zippel Group, a leading logistics company specialising in temperature-controlled transport. One of the key performance indicators being monitored is the seamless operation of the e-reefer without interruptions.

“Our main KPIs for this trial are operational reliability, return on investment, and ease of use for the customer in their daily operations,” said Pavel Gilman, SolarEdge e-Mobility’s senior director sales and marketing and programme management. “We are closely tracking telematics data and maintaining continuous feedback loops with the operator to ensure we gather valuable, real-world insights.”

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport Europe GmbH is assessing how well the system performs in terms of energy efficiency and cost savings. The company maintains that all-electric refrigeration solutions can cut operational costs by up to 50%, compared to conventional diesel units.

With optimal usage, ROI can be achieved in just two-to-four years, it is claimed.

“We aim to demonstrate that this configuration can function autonomously, ideally without relying on grid electricity,” said TIP Group vice president sales and marketing, Rogier Laan. “This trial will provide critical insights into system performance, energy savings, and operational efficiency, helping us refine the solution for broader market adoption.”

One of the biggest obstacles is market hesitation and initial investment costs. “Many fleet operators are still cautious about transitioning to new technology due to concerns about cost and operational impact,” said Gilman. “The key to overcoming this challenge is demonstrating a clear return on investment through real-world trials and partnering with full-service equipment providers like TIP Group, which helps mitigate financial risk for customers.”

From a technological standpoint, infrastructure limitations and energy costs also play a role. While charging infrastructure is not a major issue because the system can be recharged via any 400V socket, the high cost of electricity – especially in markets like Germany – can affect adoption rates. 

“That’s why the Powered Trailer focuses on energy independence, utilising solar panels and an energy recuperation axle to generate power on the go,” a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries spokesman said.

Regulatory challenges also present hurdles. TIP Group says it has encountered legislative discrepancies across different countries, particularly in the Netherlands, where the registration of energy recuperation axles has yet to be approved.

“Despite being an early adopter of sustainable transport, the Netherlands has yet to finalise legislation allowing registration of these axles, while other EU countries have already moved ahead,” said Laan. “We expect this to be resolved by Q2 2025, but in the meantime, we are working with alternative markets to push adoption forward.”