PLM Fleet delivers zero-emission refrigerated trailers in U.S.

Marubeni Corporation and Mizuho Leasing Company recently began providing zero-emission refrigerated trailers to customers in the United States.

The reefer trailers are designed and manufactured by Advanced Energy Machines (AEM) and delivered through PLM Fleet, a U.S.-based refrigerated trailer leasing and rental business.

Marubeni and Mizuho report that deliveries commenced in December 2020.

As a leader in the U.S. cold chain supply industry, PLM has been educating refrigerated fleet operators on the viability of zero-emission refrigerated trailers, holding joint exhibitions and lectures with AEM, since 2019, the companies said. In May 2020, PLM signed an agreement with AEM and started sales activities in the U.S. market. PLM has since signed agreements with major customers, and began delivery of zero-emission refrigerated trailers last year. Interest and demand for the zero-emission technology is steadily increasing as the technology continues to prove itself as a viable alternative to diesel.

In the United States, hybridization and electrification are accelerating in passenger cars and trucks, and also in refrigerated trailers equipped with transport refrigeration units (TRUs) traditionally powered by diesel engines. Companies have begun to transition fleet equipment to green alternatives, leveraging lease flexibility as an important tool in the change, according to Marubeni and Mizuho. The state of California is leading the way with guidance aimed at accelerating the reduction of harmful pollutants by providing support for zero-emission vehicles and equipment, as well as infrastructure and distributed energy solutions.

Compared to diesel-powered TRUs, AEM zero-emission technology eliminates many tons of carbon dioxide annually, while also eliminating harmful nitrogen oxides. In addition to helping the environment, AEM TRUs use low-voltage, safe charging to reduce the risk of electric shock to equipment users. Available across all trailer sizes and configurations, including multiple-temperature applications, AEM TRUs use battery technology along with solar and momentum generation to extend useful routes before recharging.

Through PLM, Marubeni and Mizuho Leasing will contribute to delivering low-carbon and sustainable solutions by expanding environmentally focused products with advanced technology in the cold chain market.