Australia’s First Electric Refrigerated Ute Body
‘Driven to Deliver’ is the Cooler MO: This solution is no exception.
OVERVIEW
Constructed for customer Peachester Fresh, the system has been designed for maximum performance and flexibility in the field. To this end, it has been configured to automatically switch between three different power sources: alternator, solar and mains plug-in.
Director Mark Carter says the final build features a 12-volt DC horizontal scroll compressor system capable of holding minus 20 degrees Celsius continuously for over six hours of runtime at full load. He adds that under typical refrigeration cycles, performance extends further.
Paired with a 170-watt solar panel, the system harvests around 10 amps per hour in direct sunlight, pushing runtime into the 10+ hour range.
CHALLENGE
The client required a versatile solution which could handle switching between mutiple power sources, automatically.
Whilst at home, the body is plugged into ESB. When In-Transit, the upgraded alternator powers and charges the batteries. When at the market destiation, the batteries and solar provide the power.
TAILORED DESIGN & ENGINEERING
Mark adds that noise levels are exceptionally low thanks to the direct DC design – the compressor is near-silent, with only the fans audible at around 40-60dB when standing beside the vehicle. This makes the unit ideal for work sites that prohibit petrol generator use due to noise restrictions.
The system also provides versatile charging options. It can run and recharge simultaneously on any standard 240V 10A circuit or replenish batteries via a 150A upgraded alternator supplied by Rapid Power Industries.
“This build delivers reliable cold storage, long battery life and quiet operation – meeting strict site requirements without compromise,” Mark says.
Based in Rocklea, Brisbane, Cooler has been providing high-quality refrigerated vehicles and Pantech trucks for more than 40 years, handling everything from the initial build to required repairs.