Refrigerated Trailers: Driving More Sustainable Fleets
As our industry focuses more and more on refrigerated trailer sustainability, fleets are looking for ways to shrink their environmental footprint, and are noticing that fuel efficiency, durability, and long-term thermal performance all matter. As Tim Schmeits, Director of Engineering for Everest Reefers at Great Dane, says, trailer design can support emissions-conscious operations without sacrificing performance.
The Role of Insulation in Fuel Savings & Sustainability
Thermal performance isn’t just about protecting your cargo, it directly impacts fuel consumption, as well.
“The better your insulation, the less work your TRU has to do,” Schmeits said. “That translates into less fuel use and fewer run hours.”
Everest trailers can be spec’d with up to three inches of sidewall insulation, a smart move for fleets transporting frozen freight or operating in hot climates. Thicker insulation reduces heat gain and lightens the load on TRUs, meaning lower diesel use and operating costs over time.
Great Dane’s patented ThermoGuard liner keeps this performance consistent by minimizing foam degradation and preventing water intrusion, both of which can compromise insulation, add weight, and increase emissions.
Flexible TRU Options for Any Fleet
As powertrain strategies evolve, trailers need to be adaptable. Everest refrigerated trailers can handle diesel mechanical units, battery-electric TRUs, or standby electric systems.
“The trailer itself is agnostic to how the air is cooled,” Schmeits noted. “The insulation and construction determine how well it holds temperature, not the power source.”
Electric TRUs are rising in popularity but can pose challenges due to battery weight and charging needs. Everest reefers let fleets transition without structural changes, making it easier to adopt new power strategies over time.
Cold plates are another refrigeration option, though those are primarily seen on truck bodies.
“Cold plates are also a compatible option and are ideal for certain situations such as short-hauls or local delivery routes,” said Schmeits. They act like giant lunchbox cooling packs, using frozen saline-filled tubes to absorb heat throughout a shift.
Built to Last: Durability That Drives Sustainability
Durability matters for the environment. Longer-lasting trailers mean fewer repairs, fewer replacements, and a smaller carbon footprint.
Everest reefers are engineered with several features that help extend usable life including:
- Composite floor sills that resist water damage and eliminate wood;
- Galvanized or stainless steel hardware that resists corrosion;
- Foamed-in-place insulation applied in temperature-controlled presses; and
- Reinforced rear frames and impact zones to reduce structural failures.
Refrigerated Trailers Run Longer with Smart Tech
Great Dane’s FleetPulse system uses data to keep trailers healthy. By identifying performance issues early, the platform helps fleets address concerns before they become downtime events or fuel waste problems.
The insights FleetPulse provides allows maintenance teams to address problems quickly, keeping trailers in service longer with fewer emergency repairs, reducing parts waste, fuel loss, and ultimately, overall environmental impact. Additionally, alerts help to decrease dwell time and integration with Thermo King provides insights on TRU usage and temperature, providing greater sustainability.
Corrosion Resistance as a Sustainability Lever
Rust shortens trailer life and can drive costly repairs. Everest trailers fight corrosion with standard galvanized steel on key areas like the rear impact guard, tire carrier, and support leg bracing.
“Galvanized or stainless steel materials hold up much better than painted steel,” Schmeits explained.
He added that for harsher climates or coastal regions, fleets can opt for additional galvanized protection on upper couplers, steel crossmembers, the suspension slider box, along with support legs and pintle hook assemblies. These measures extend component life, lower replacement costs, and reduce environmental impact over time.
Spec Smarter for Cleaner Operations
“The heat transfer rate is all about how the trailer is built,” Schmeits said. “When you spec it right, you don’t have to overwork your TRU to get the results you want.”
Consider thermal performance, power compatibility, and durability when spec’ing your refrigerated trailers. Ready to experience greater sustainability? Everest trailers deliver on all three by combining proven insulation systems, adaptable refrigeration integration, and corrosion-fighting components.
Cut fuel costs, extend trailer life, and lower emissions. Contact our team today.
