Retrofit – from diesel to electric refrigeration

Traditional refrigeration transports usually use an additional diesel engine as well as the vehicle’s own engine. The new Retrofit concept means that the existing engine for the diesel refrigeration unit is no longer required.

A refrigeration transport distribution vehicle using a traditional refrigeration unit requires a separate diesel engine to power the unit. In the same way, a tractor and trailer vehicle needs two separate engines. Because the refrigeration engines are not subject to emission limits, the vast majority of them have the lowest environmental classification. But now there is a new concept – Retrofit – that upgrades existing diesel refrigeration units to electric power.

The concept is based on converting the units so they are powered by a hydraulic generator connected to the vehicle’s PTO. This completely removes the unit’s need for a separate diesel engine. The Retrofit upgrade developed by Hultsteins takes only a few days to complete.

Now that the environmental performance of even older vehicles can be improved with a simple upgrade, the benefits are considerable. As an example, a tractor and
trailer vehicle can reduce NOx emissions by two thirds. At the same time, particle emissions are reduced by 80%. Retrofit also has a major effect on fuel consumption. A tractor and trailer can save almost GBP 13,000 per year in diesel costs and a distribution vehicle can save approximately GBP 6,000 per year.