S.KO COOL refrigerated semi-trailer box with S.CU dc90 transport refrigeration unit

• Schmitz Cargobull combines new refrigeration technology with an integrated system solution consisting of vehicle, refrigeration unit, telematics and service
• Production of the S.KO COOL has begun on a new assembly line at the Vreden plant
• Standard equipment with new Body Control Unit (BCU) for higher availability
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June 2026 – The Schmitz Cargobull S.KO COOL refrigerated semi-trailer with TrailerConnect® telematics, including digital temperature recorder installed as standard, is leading the way in temperature-controlled transport. The new generation S.KO COOL is now being manufactured on the new assembly line at the company’s Vreden plant – a milestone for modern and highly automated production.

The proven FERROPLAST® insulation with a k-value from 0.295 W/m²K contributes to a stable cold chain and permanently low energy costs. The short chassis offers maximum interior height for even more load volume. The S.KO COOL semi-trailer box with the S.CU dc90 transport refrigeration unit with ePTO ready (electric Power Take Off) interface enables higher efficiency, lower emissions and more future-proofing in temperature-controlled transport. In addition, new practical equipment options such as a solar panel for battery charging when stationary, optimised LED interior lighting and an additional control panel for the S.CU at the rear of the trailer facilitate more efficient processes and reduce process costs. A full-service contract for the transport refrigeration unit can be concluded ex works with a term of up to 96 months and ensures predictable costs.

For the safe transport of goods and efficient fleet management, the vehicles are equipped with numerous safety and comfort functions, such as interior monitoring, which is directly connected to the TrailerConnect® portal.

Predictive energy management for high availability

The S.KO COOL is equipped with the Body Control Unit (BCU) as standard, which networks all relevant systems of the trailer. This increases operational readiness and enables condition-based, predictive maintenance. The BCU ensures the battery of the cooling unit is recharged via the EBS connector of the tractor which protects against deep discharge. In combination with the S.CU, an integrated battery monitor optimises battery management and reduces the risk of failure in daily operation. An optional solar panel complements the energy supply at the standstill. The charge status can be checked at any time in the TrailerConnect® portal. The higher availability has a direct positive effect on the cost-effectiveness of fleet operations.

Integrated security and compliance solutions

For the transport of high-value and sensitive goods, the S.KO COOL offers comprehensive security and compliance equipment. TAPA-compliant security systems from the factory minimise the risk of theft and tampering. In addition, the optional GDP pharmaceutical package ensures that temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals are transported in accordance with the applicable guidelines. By reducing risks, damage, loss of goods and associated costs can be sustainably reduced.

Practice-oriented equipment for efficient processes

With a number of new and further developed equipment features, the S.KO COOL supports an efficient and safe working day. New LED interior lighting ensures improved visibility in the cargo area, which enables uniform and effective illumination, especially when partition walls or roller shutters are used. The equipment package is supplemented by new work and safety lights as well as a robust, non-slip multifunctional floor, which is particularly suitable for quiet night-time deliveries. These practical solutions help to reduce working hours, avoid errors and reduce damage to the vehicle or load.

New internal control of the S.CU for faster handling

Another feature is the new operating option of the transport refrigeration unit S.CU via a control panel in the interior of the trailer. Switching on and off as well as setting the temperature can be carried out directly in the rear area, without interrupting the loading process. This means that an already loaded chamber can be cooled immediately, while a second chamber can be loaded in parallel. Unnecessary door openings and the associated temperature losses are avoided. This accelerates loading and unloading and reduces process costs in daily operations.

Cost-efficient transformation in refrigerated transport: S.CU dc90 transport refrigeration unit with ePTO ready interface

The S.CU dc90 transport cooling unit was officially launched at the Solutrans 2025 trade fair and impresses with technical advancements in the areas of performance, sustainability and operating costs.

At the heart of the innovation is the newly developed two-stage reciprocating compressor and the introduction of the R454A refrigerant, which Schmitz Cargobull is the first manufacturer in Europe to use as a standard in the S.CU modular system. R454A has a significantly lower direct GWP (Global Warming Potential) value than the previously used R452A. This reduces the CO₂ equivalent of the refrigerants used by 89 percent. With this decision, Schmitz Cargobull is reacting at an early stage to the stricter requirements of the EU F-Gas Regulation, which provides for a gradual reduction in refrigerants with high CO₂ equivalents.

In addition to the improved environmental balance, the S.CU dc90 also achieves measurable performance improvements. Compared to the previous model, the new engine delivers up to six percent more cooling capacity and reduces fuel consumption by up to ten percent. In practice, this leads to a significantly shorter pull-down time: the load compartment cools down from +30 °C to –20 °C up to 21 percent faster, which means time savings of around 30 minutes. Shorter transit times have a direct positive effect on the quality of the transported goods and operating costs.

The increase in performance is made possible by a newly developed, semi-hermetically developed two-stage reciprocating compressor. The closed design reduces maintenance and repair costs in the refrigeration circuit and at the same time reduces noise generation, especially in partial load operation. The engine is supplemented by the thermodynamically optimised Hatz common-rail diesel engine with an extended speed range, which can also be operated with the CO₂-neutral fuel HVO100 (EN15940), which is still in use.

Schmitz Cargobull is the first trailer manufacturer and market leader for refrigerated bodies to offer a diesel-powered transport refrigeration unit from series production, which is operated emission-free via the semitrailer tractor's electric power take-off. Both the S.CU d80 and the S.CU dc90 are optionally available ex works with an ePTO ready interface (electric power take off) and enable purely electric operation, in combination with an electric tractor unit.

This solution represents a cost-effective electrification variant, as the existing high-voltage battery in the truck can be used and an additional high-voltage battery in the trailer can be dispensed with. This means maximum flexibility in the mixed fleet: A trailer with S.CU and ePTO interface can be used regardless of the type of driveline of the tractor (diesel, electric, etc.). Additional operational safety is ensured by the automatic switchover from electric to diesel operation. If no electrical energy is available either from the CEE socket or via the ePTO, the integrated diesel generator set takes over the supply of the cooling units and ensures continuous operation.