With the integration of artificial intelligence in the transport refrigeration sector making strides, Thermo King has announced introducing intelligent solutions to achieve greater reliability and fuel efficiency.

Walid Sellami, Area Manager (Middle East and North Africa) of Thermo King, said: “We have recently launched the SLXi platform for trailer units, which is supported by the TK Reefer app, via bluetooth. With this solution, the user can stay connected to the unit remotely, using a smart handheld device.”

Explaining the dynamics of the solution, he said: “Our objective is to optimise operations for logistics and operation managers, who now can access their unit without the burden of laptops and cables to connect to the unit to access information. With this solution tracking of the unit, temperature readings and other critical readings become more efficient. The user will also be instantly notified if any alarm sets off or if it is out of range.” Sellami pointed out that the technology would also reduce the workload on drivers, who can now focus on their driving rather than track temperature readings and other additional operations that can hamper their productivity.

Speaking on its reported contribution to fuel efficiency, Sellami said: “The SLXi also can reduce fuel consumption. Although we cannot pinpoint to actual numbers but depending on the different configurations of the unit and its operation mode, we estimate that the fuel consumption is between 10-20% less than the earlier models. The annual CO₂ emissions of the SLXi have been cut by 2.4 tonnes, and NOx exhaust emissions have been reduced by 15% in comparison to the earlier model.”