Smart Factory in Vreden: New assembly line for the S.KO COOL

September 2026 – Schmitz Cargobull is consistently driving forward its transformation to intelligently networked production. With the new assembly line at the Vreden plant, the company is setting a milestone on the way towards a truly smart factory. The modern production environment is the basis for the start of series production of the new S.KO COOL, which is positioned as the latest generation in the refrigeration segment and will be presented internationally for the first time at the upcoming IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026, in Hannover.

The new assembly line takes industrial production at the Vreden plant to a new level. Automated production processes ensure the highest level of precision and reliability. Digital process control further improves product quality and minimises error rates. At the same time, the production of the refrigerated bodies is consistently geared towards an optimised K-value and meets the strictest quality standards as well as certifications according to national and international specifications.

Thanks to the modular design and digital control, production can react flexibly to different requirements. Energy-efficient processes, the targeted reduction of CO₂ emissions and the responsible use of resources are firmly anchored in the manufacturing strategy. This is complemented by clear social responsibility with fair working conditions and strong regional added value.

At the heart of the smart factory is the consistent use of Industry 4.0 technologies. The use of artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT) and robotics enables intelligent, networked manufacturing. This increases efficiency and transparency across the entire value creation process and has a direct impact on product quality and availability for customers who benefit from innovative, high-performance and economical vehicle solutions.

New BCU in the S.KO COOL: An improved control element for maximum uptime in refrigerated transport

At the Vreden plant, the Body Control Unit (BCU) is installed as standard in all S.KO semi-trailers of the current generation. At the same time, the roll-out in the international production network has already begun: The BCU is the central control element in the trailer and ensures greater operational readiness in temperature-controlled transport. It networks all relevant systems and creates the basis for additional digital functions.

In conjunction with the S.CU chiller, the BCU improves the compatibility of the trailer and chiller. Functions such as interior monitoring, door locking and status data are centrally controlled and displayed transparently. The battery charge level of the S.CU can be called up easily at any time in the TrailerConnect® portal – for predictable maintenance, more operating time and a sustainable, future-proof investment.

The higher operational reliability means significant added value for fleet operators. The new S.KO COOL is even more efficient and reliable in daily use – a decisive advantage in temperature-controlled transport.