Utility Trailer and Schmitz Cargobull announced a partnership, Cargobull North America, at the International Foodservice Distributors Association Solutions Conference on Monday in Forth Worth, Texas.
Cargobull North America will manufacture transport refrigeration units (TRUs) that it says are more efficient and allow for advanced trailer telematics to monitor and manage fleets. Utility Trailer is the exclusive North American distributor of European market leader Schmitz Cargobull's TRU technology on its 3000R line of trailers.
"It was only natural for us to enter talks with Utility Trailer," says Schmitz Cargobull Chairman of the Board Andreas Schmitz. "They have an in-depth market knowledge and a comprehensive dealer network, and, as we're both family owned and operated companies, Utility and Schmitz Cargobull share many of the same values."
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The North American line-up features the 625 single-temperature TRU and the 655MT multitemperature hybrid TRU. Fully electric, TUV-homologated models with battery recuperation axles are coming soon, the companies say. The TRUs meet California emissions standards for 2030 and is also compliant with the California Air Resources Board's ultra-low emission regulations without using a diesel particulate filter or exhaust gas recirculation valve. Units can also be plugged in at the dock, which Utility says maximizes cooling efficiency.
The trailers come with Utility TrailerConnect PRO telematics, offering safe temperature-control management with active monitoring and intelligent TRU remote controls.
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"Our joint venture with Cargobull further positions Utility Trailer as a global leader in sustainability, fuel efficiency and emissions reduction," says Utility President and CEO Jeff Bennett. "We don't just want to be the biggest, but also the best, holistic destination for everything reefer customers need, from strong and lightweight boxes to energy-efficient TRUs and high-tech telematics, all in one trailer."
The new TRUs will also feature a Hatz industrial diesel engine with common rail injection, a hybrid powertrain, fully embedded shore power and noise-dampening options for quieter loading docks.
