Environmentally friendly, powerful, and economical

Prevention is better than cure: True to this old saying, Schmitz Cargobull is already introducing the new R454A refrigerant into the modular system for S.CU transport cooling units. This development stems from stricter EU regulations related to F-gases (fluorinated greenhouse gases), which will require refrigerants with a high CO2 equivalent to be reduced over the next few years.

While there is no general ban on refrigerant R452A – which is currently widely used – the quota system applied for reduction targets is driving up prices. For this reason, Schmitz Cargobull is making the change towards a future-proof alternative sooner rather than later: The new R454A refrigerant has a much lower direct GWP value (Global Warming Potential) and reduces the CO2 equivalent by 89% compared to the previous R452A.

Coinciding with the switch to the environmentally friendly refrigerant, the new S.CU dc90 transport cooling unit will replace the S.CU dc85 model. “In order to run on R454A, the S.CU dc90 uses a newly developed two-stage reciprocating compressor,” explains Jonathan Steckel, Head of Product Management at Cargobull Cool GmbH & Co. KG. “What’s more, we have adapted the common-rail diesel engine used with this unit to perfectly suit the new design. As a result, we have managed to increase the cooling capacity, while significantly reducing diesel consumption,” explains Steckel. 

To be more precise: For zero-degree transport, the new S.CU dc90 delivers a maximum cooling capacity of 17,300 watts – that’s 6% higher than its predecessor’s maximum of 16,000 watts. At the same time, engineers have managed to reduce consumption by up to 10%. On top of that, the design with the new hermetic compressor is also easy to repair and maintain. The lower noise levels – particularly during partial load operation – also add a noticeable boost to comfort in the cab. 

 

„The S.CU dc90 is not just an advance in technology; it is also a clear commitment to our aspiration to help shape the sustainable development of temperature-controlled transport.“       

Jonathan Steckel, Head of Product Management at Cargobull Cool GmbH & Co. KG

Familiar features still available

Moreover, the fundamental advantages offered by the previous S.CU dc85 are still available: from the electronic speed control for low speed fluctuations and the microchannel condenser for greater reliability to the multi-temperature option with additional roof evaporator. Furthermore, the thermodynamically refined Hatz diesel engine can still be run using the carbon-neutral fuel HVO100 (EN15940).

In the first quarter of 2026, Schmitz Cargobull will also be switching the entry-level S.CU d80 model to R454A, while still preserving the current performance specifications. “In this case, no major design changes will be needed for the new refrigerant, though the different physical properties will call for a few adjustments. Despite what some people thought, simply swapping out the refrigerant won’t do it. For this reason, R454A cannot be used in all existing models,” explains Steckel.

“Prior to the start of series production, we trialled the new S.CU dc90 at customers in Europe and South Africa for an extended period, and the feedback we got was very enthusiastic. On the one hand, they praised the strong cooling capacity and short cool-down period, as well as the quiet compressor and low fuel consumption on the other – not only in comparison with its predecessor, but with all competing models on the market,” says Steckel.