CoolKit upfits VW Crafter reefer van with dual-temp capability
CoolKit recently fitted the popular Trendline model of its Volkswagen Crafter refrigerated vehicle with a dual-temperature conversion that enables it to carry frozen and chilled goods at the same time.
The UK-based fridge van conversion specialist plans to highlight the vehicle at this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham, England.
The dual-temp Crafter Trendline features a moveable lightweight bulkhead, which allows for flexible sizing of each compartment, and the ability to use the full space as a freezer or chiller, depending on the cargo.
This medium-wheelbase van also boasts GRP high-impact reinforced panels, which CoolKit says is a more durable and lightweight alternative to traditional conversion methods, offering an improved payload
“We are specialists in temperature-controlled conversions for a wide range of industries and pride ourselves on being the market-leading refrigerated panel van converter for customers in the UK,” said Loredana Emmerson, marketing manager at CoolKit.
“At a time when vehicles are getting heavier, we are able to combat this with weight savings concepts which can offer improvements on payload by up to 150 kilograms (331 pounds) depending on the make, model and specification. This is achieved by our innovative approach to the materials used within the conversions, together with rigorous testing and feedback from clients.”
The vehicle also features an external side slab door, anti-slip GRP textured floor, pallet loading protection pack and high-intensity LED lighting.
Unique to CoolKit, the van was fitted with the CurtAir system to both side and rear entrance, creating an effective and invisible climate separation set to keep the cold—or in some cases heat—inside and the ambient humid air outside during door openings, the company claimed.
“The vehicle has been provided by our local Volkswagen Van Centre in Lancashire, with whom we enjoy a trusted relationship, after gaining the status of Volkswagen Integrated Partner back in 2017,” Emmerson said.
The lightweight bulkhead was sourced from long-standing supplier Commercial Body Fittings (CBF).
“The Cool-Guard insulated bulkhead features a lightweight core and market-leading fan kit to enable the transportation of frozen, chilled or ambient produce within the same vehicle,” said Simon Ragless, special projects manager at CBF. “This maximizes the payload whilst offering optimum flexibility to the operator.
“It’s great to be working with such a forward-thinking, professional company like CoolKit, who continue to invest in the future.”
Finally, the vehicle includes the Seven Telematics’ SevenEye Tracking System and Transcan Advance recorder and printer, which is designed to provide reliable, easy-to-use temperature tracking in commercial vehicles.
“Commercial business-owners have told us that having the Transcan Advance and Seven Eye System on board is invaluable in reducing risks on the road and maintaining cargo integrity,” said Martin Jane, sales director at Seven Telematics.
