German supermarket chain, Netto Marken-Discount, has started a three-year technology field trial of Carrier Transicold’s natural refrigerant trailer prototype, the first unit to use carbon dioxide (CO2) refrigerant in mainland Europe.
The prototype is one of the first refrigeration units to use CO2 in a closed-loop system, using technology from Carrier Transicold’s NaturaLine container refrigeration system, assembled inside a traditional Vector unit chassis and powered by the same E-Drive all-electric technology as the existing Vector range.
Netto's CO2 trailer unit prototype is in use Mondays through Fridays in a two-shift operation, distributing goods from a central warehouse in Ponholz to Netto-subsidiaries in the area.
“Our test with the Carrier CO2 trailer prototype unit has started successfully,” said Christina Stylianou, Head of Corporate Communication, Netto Marken-Discount.
“Our drivers confirm that operating this unit is quite similar to conventional refrigeration units. We are eagerly waiting for the high and busy season during which we will continue to monitor the unit’s efficiency levels.
“By testing the prototype, Netto is taking a step closer to achieving its own ambitious environmental goals.”
“Delivering a dedicated natural refrigerant trailer prototype into service marks a huge milestone in the development of over-the-road refrigeration using CO2,” said David Appel, president, Carrier Transicold & Refrigeration Systems.
“Our ultimate vision is to see temperature-controlled units running on natural refrigerant in mainstream production.Today, with the support of Netto, we are one step closer.”