Thermo King announced a new product line that eventually will replace its temperature control units for straight trucks, the company announced Thursday, March 19, at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ky. The T-Series provides improved performance, fuel economy and lifecycle cost, said Tim Ryan, truck product director. The new models will be introduced from August through February.
The primary models will be one for normal operation powered by the truck’s diesel engine; a hybrid that can utilize plug-in power; and a hybrid that can use power from a hybrid truck’s electric storage. In the third case, using Thermo King’s Hybrid SmartPower, the owner will use 40 to 60 percent less fuel and emit 40 to 60 percent fewer pollutants, Ryan said. “If your wheels are turning on your truck, you’ll be able to use export power,” he said.
The T-Series overall will offer 10 percent better fuel economy than existing models, due partly to improved throttle valve technology, Ryan said. The T-Series’ features, he said, include:
A “slick exterior skin” that is more durable and scratch-resistant than current models;
A honeycombed grille that allows for maximum airflow through the condenser coil;
Placement of components to allow easier service and use;
A driver interface that’s based on symbols, not text, to reduce driver error;
