Future-proof refrigerated transport technology: S.KO COOL with S.CU dc90 refrigeration unit
The S.KO COOL refrigerated semi-trailers, built at the new Smart Factory in Vreden, are setting new standards in temperature-controlled transport thanks to their TrailerConnect® telematics system – including a digital temperature recorder – fitted as standard. Dennis Hövelmann, Head of Product Management for the Cool Freight product line, provides further details on the tried-and-tested FERROPLAST® insulation, which guarantees consistently low energy costs with a k-value from 0.295 W/m²K: “Inside the S.KO COOL, we have three new features: the interior monitoring system, the control panel for our S.CU transport refrigeration unit, and the new interior lighting in the form of an LED strip.”
In addition to the interior monitoring system, which is directly linked to the TrailerConnect® portal, there are further safety and convenience features designed to ensure the safe transport of goods and efficient fleet management. The new LED interior lighting provides better visibility, particularly when partition walls or roller shutters are in use. New work and safety lights, as well as a robust, non-slip multifunctional floor – which is also suitable for quiet night-time deliveries – complete the equipment package.
Using the control panel at the rear mentioned above, the driver can adjust the temperature of the S.CU refrigeration unit without interrupting the loading process. This makes it possible, for example, to cool a chamber that has already been loaded immediately, whilst a second chamber is being loaded at the same time. This prevents unnecessary door openings and temperature losses. It also speeds up loading and unloading.
Proactive energy management for high availability
Two innovations relating to battery management complement the practical equipment options: an optional solar panel on the roof allows the battery to be charged whilst the vehicle is stationary, and the new Body Control Unit (BCU) is fitted as standard. The latter is not only the new standard at the Smart Factory in Vreden; its roll-out across the international production network is already underway
As the central control unit, the BCU ensures greater operational readiness and reliability in temperature-controlled transport, thereby delivering significant added value for fleet operators. In particular, the BCU ensures that the refrigeration unit’s battery is recharged via the tractor unit’s EBS connector, which provides reliable protection against deep discharge.
Cost-effective transformation in refrigerated transport: S.CU dc90 with ePTO ready
The S.CU dc90 refrigeration unit made its debut at the Solutrans 2025 trade fair and impressed with technical advancements in the areas of performance, sustainability and operating costs. At its heart is a new two-stage reciprocating compressor and the introduction of the R454A refrigerant, which Schmitz Cargobull is the first manufacturer in Europe to use as standard in the S.CU modular system. A full-service contract for the transport refrigeration unit can be taken out ex-works for a term of up to 96 months, ensuring predictable costs.
Like the S.CU d80 refrigeration unit (which also uses R454A refrigerant in Europe), the S.CU dc90 can be fitted with an optional ePTO-ready interface (electric power take-off) as standard. This solution offers a particularly cost-effective option for the transition to e-mobility: when combined with an electric tractor unit, its high-voltage batteries enable fully electric operation, and with the diesel generator set still in place (including automatic mode switching), full flexibility is maintained – whether the batteries are depleted, during breaks, or even during conventional use with a diesel tractor unit.
The S.KO COOL offers comprehensive security and compliance features for the transport of high-value and sensitive goods. TAPA-compliant security systems fitted as standard minimise the risk of theft and tampering. In addition, the optional GDP pharmaceutical package ensures that temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals are transported in accordance with the applicable guidelines. By reducing risks, damage, loss of goods and the associated costs can be sustainably minimised.
