Volta Zero cools with Carrier

The Swedish truck start-up Volta Trucks has now announced a cooperation with the refrigeration unit specialist Carrier Transicold. Carrier will serve as the sole supplier of refrigeration systems for the 16-ton model of the fully electric Zero. Even before the supply agreement was concluded, the two companies had closely collaborated within development teams to integrate the fully electric Iceland refrigeration system, which does not require its own engine, as well as the PowerBox technology into the e-truck. The system was specifically developed for customers who need a sustainable, temperature-controlled delivery vehicle for urban traffic, according to the manufacturer.

"As part of our strategy, we work closely with various leading global partners. The choice was therefore obvious and fell on Carrier Transicold as the supplier for our refrigeration systems in the Volta Zero. The Iceland cooling units have already proven themselves in everyday practice and can be seamlessly integrated into our drive and control systems," explained Ian Collins, Chief Product Officer of Volta Trucks.

Iceland eCool is an underbody system that works in conjunction with the so-called PowerBox, which acts like an electronic power take-off. It takes energy from the e-truck's powertrain and converts it into the 400V alternating current at 50Hz required to operate the unit. The system is said to achieve an efficiency of more than 95% in converting energy from the electric drive to operate the refrigeration system. Additionally, the system is quiet and remains well below the standardized PIEK level.

"We have invested in electric technology over the past two decades and are very pleased that our customers can benefit from it. Reducing emissions and noise continues to be one of our priorities, and the project with Volta Trucks is ideally suited for this," says Victor Calvo, President of Carrier Transicold International Truck & Trailer.

As part of the agreement, customers who opt for a temperature-controlled Volta Zero will have access to the refrigeration specialist's Europe-wide service network, with services for maintenance, repairs, spare parts, and emergency assistance in workshops and with mobile units. The company also has a comprehensive service network in Germany. A roadworthy design validation prototype of the Volta Zero with the system will be on display from May 24 to 26, 2022 at the commercial vehicle trade fair at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham (UK), Volta announced. The Swedish manufacturer has its technical management in the UK, and production is currently being set up at the former MAN plant in Steyr, Austria.