TIP Group, in collaboration with SolarEdge e-Mobility and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport Europe GmbH, has launched a groundbreaking electric refrigerated trailer powered by renewable energy. The new Powered Trailer, recently unveiled at the IAA Transportation exhibition in Hannover, marks a significant step towards sustainable, zero-emission refrigerated transport.
A Game-Changing Collaboration
The Powered Trailer integrates battery storage, solar panels, and an energy recuperation axle to replace traditional diesel-powered refrigeration units. Each partner contributes vital expertise to the project.
The SolarEdge e-Mobility, TIP Group and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport Europe GmbH teams in front of the Powered Trailer at IAA Transportation
“Our ambition within TIP Group is to lead the innovation change to zero-emission temperature-controlled transport with reefer trailers,” said Rogier Laan, Vice President Sales and Marketing at TIP Group. “Both SolarEdge e-Mobility and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are known for their forward-thinking and commitment to decarbonisation.”
Harnessing Renewable Power
The roof-mounted solar panels can supply between 20% and 120% of the energy needed for refrigeration, depending on external conditions such as sunlight, temperature, and usage patterns. Meanwhile, the energy recuperation axle captures kinetic energy—particularly during braking—and converts it into electricity. This is stored in a high-capacity battery system to power the trailer even when solar input is low.
SolarEdge e-Mobility’s smart energy integration ensures the system uses free, renewable energy as efficiently as possible.
“Our goal is to increase the share of free, green energy—solar and kinetic power—within the trailer,” said Pavel Gilman, Senior Director at SolarEdge e-Mobility. “By reducing dependence on battery capacity alone, we lower costs and increase operational hours. This is a truly emission-free power solution.”
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries provides the all-electric refrigeration unit, optimised for energy efficiency using advanced inverter technology.
“In an ideal scenario, the trailer’s energy demand is fully met through renewable sources,” explained Gunnar Hilge, Head of Development at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport Europe, GmbH. “This makes it a true zero-emission solution.”
Pilot Programme in Action
A pilot trial is currently underway with the Zippel Group, a logistics firm specialising in temperature-controlled transport. The programme is testing the trailer in real-world conditions to ensure reliability, efficiency, and customer usability.
“Our main KPIs for this trial are operational reliability, return on investment, and ease of use for the customer,” said Gilman. “We are closely monitoring telematics data and gathering continuous feedback.”
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries reports potential operational cost savings of up to 50% compared to diesel refrigeration units, depending on local fuel and electricity prices. With optimal use, return on investment (ROI) could be achieved in just two to four years, offering significant savings over a typical trailer lifespan of six to ten years.
“We aim to demonstrate that this configuration can function autonomously, ideally without relying on grid electricity,” added Laan. “This trial will help refine the solution for wider market adoption.”
Tackling Adoption Challenges
While the Powered Trailer is a major innovation, industry-wide adoption of electric reefers still faces hurdles. Upfront investment costs and operational uncertainties remain a concern for fleet operators.
“Many are still cautious due to concerns about cost and impact on daily operations,” said Gilman. “Demonstrating ROI through trials and working with full-service providers like TIP Group is key to overcoming this.”
Electricity costs and infrastructure also influence uptake. “Although charging infrastructure is not a major issue—any 400V socket will do—electricity prices in some countries, such as Germany, can be prohibitive,” a Mitsubishi spokesperson explained. “That’s why energy independence via solar and kinetic power is central to the Powered Trailer’s design.”
The Future of Emission-Free Refrigerated Transport
The TIP Group Powered Trailer offers a scalable, sustainable alternative to diesel reefers. With real-world testing showing promising results and substantial cost-saving potential, it presents a viable path for fleets aiming to meet environmental goals without sacrificing performance.
As data from the pilot programme continues to be collected, the partnership remains focused on scaling the technology and supporting the industry’s transition to a greener future.
