Thermo King advances reefer transport electrification

Thermo King recently unveiled a new Electrification Readiness Program designed to equip the company’s dealer network with the technical expertise, resources, and support needed to advance decarbonization in the transport refrigeration sector.

According to the International Energy Agency, if the U.S. is to achieve its national 2050 net-zero emissions targets, the transport sector must reduce emissions by approximately 25% by 2030, even with anticipated growth in demand, Thermo King reproted. With more than 35 dealership locations across the U.S. currently certified for the Electrification Readiness Program and participation expected to expand to all key markets in 2024, Thermo King will offer qualification preparation to its entire dealer network—totaling more than 180 locations—by the end of 2025.

“As we continue to lead by example in deploying innovative, electrified technologies across the cold chain, we know the critical role our dealer network plays in helping our customers transition to more sustainable and efficient fleet solutions,” Adam Wittwer, Thermo King Americas president, said in a news release. “The Electrification Readiness Program is an important way we leverage our rich history of leadership and innovation to equip our network with the tools and resources necessary to service the next generation of equipment.

“As our customers navigate their sustainability journeys, they can take comfort in knowing our highly skilled dealer network is prepared to keep their fleet moving.”

The program, which will evolve along with future product launches, regulatory requirements, and compliance mandates, expands the company’s industry leadership in transport refrigeration. Electrification experts partner with an “Electrification Champion” at each participating dealership, raising the standard of service customers can expect for electric and next-generation equipment in several areas, including:

• Technical skill: Highly skilled technicians with knowledge of electrification and additional training in decarbonization solutions
• Infrastructure preparedness: Ensuring electric charger accessibility and power availability
• Commercial readiness: Regulatory and compliance expertise, risk management, and consultative selling)
• Safety and tooling: Expansive safety and equipment operation capabilities

“As a Thermo King dealer, it’s important for us to understand the journey all of our customers are on, regardless of their chosen powertrain,” said Ken Nelson, Thermo King Central California general manager. “We are committed to giving our customers solutions they can rely on, tailored to their unique needs.

“For those going electric, the Electrification Readiness Program will help to further service them by providing our team with the tools they need.”