Kögel Trailer GmbH, Burtenbach, one of Europe’s leading trailer manufacturers, is showcasing a world first in the refrigerated vehicle sector at this year’s IAA Transportation. Under the motto “Innovation that moves forward,” the company is unveiling its new refrigerated vehicle, the KÖGEL COOL LITESHELL. This trailer features a unique panel technology that significantly reduces the vehicle’s weight and offers maximum durability through enhanced impact resistance and reduced susceptibility to repairs. In keeping with the company’s philosophy, the KÖGEL COOL LITESHELL combines cost-efficiency and sustainability in an optimal symbiosis.
The KÖGEL COOL LITESHELL is 700 kilograms, or more than 9 percent, lighter than the previous Kögel Cool refrigerated vehicle. This weight reduction is achieved using specially manufactured panels for the sides, roof, and floor. With LITESHELL panel technology, Kögel eliminates the traditional steel top layer, which contributes to excess weight. The Kögel panels consist of milled hard foam blocks made of polyurethane (PU), and the top layer is made of glass fiber mats with an outer shell of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). This combination makes corrosion on the body a thing of the past.
GRP (Glass-Reinforced Plastic) cross beams are used instead of traditional wooden cross beams. These are stronger than wood and have a reduced material thickness, which increases foam volume by 20 percent. This, in turn, improves the insulation of the entire body, as the foam insulates better than wood, ensuring product safety during transport by maintaining a constant temperature.
Focus on Sustainability
Transporting refrigerated goods generates significant CO2 emissions. Thanks to the reduced tare weight of the KÖGEL COOL LITESHELL, 0.30 liters of fuel can be saved per 100 kilometers driven, reducing emissions by 0.8 grams of CO2 per kilometer. By utilizing the higher payload and full load capacity, every 32nd trip can be saved, thus minimizing environmental impact. Using a KÖGEL COOL LITESHELL means greater range, lower fuel consumption, and fewer emissions.
Costs and Benefits
The purchase and repair costs of refrigerated vehicles are generally high. Damage to such a trailer often results in significant costs and long downtimes for repairs. The new KÖGEL COOL LITESHELL panels have greater impact resistance and stability than conventional panels, providing protection against minor damage. Certain types of damage are avoided altogether because the outer wall of the refrigerated vehicle is a continuous surface on which nothing can tilt. Minor repairs can be carried out quickly and easily in a workshop or by experts, allowing the KÖGEL COOL LITESHELL to be back on the road in no time.
Cooperation with Technology Leaders
At the IAA Transportation 2024, Kögel will present the AxlePower system, developed jointly by BPW and Thermo King, on the COOL LITESHELL vehicle. This solution transforms the trailer into a powerhouse of sustainability. The energy generated by the BPW ePower axle during braking and driving is temporarily stored in a battery and automatically transferred to the Thermo King refrigeration unit, both while driving and when stationary. In addition to saving fuel and reducing CO2 emissions, the system is quiet and contributes to driver comfort.
With the KÖGEL COOL LITESHELL and the corresponding production facility, Kögel is setting new industry standards and reinforcing its commitment to innovative and sustainable technologies.