Schmitz Cargobull Introduces the New S.CUd 80 ePTO-ready Refrigeration Unit at Solutrans

Entry-Level Model Compatible with Electric Trucks

Designed for the mid-segment, the SCUd 80 ePTO-ready version can be connected to the high-voltage battery of electric trucks through a special socket integrated into the standard model. Thanks to this feature, the unit can operate both on diesel trucks and on E-trucks.

At the fair, the unit was showcased together with the SKO City trailer, designed for urban supermarket distribution.

Full Hybrid Structure: Diesel + Generator + ePTO + AC-ePTO

Steckel emphasized that all SCU refrigeration units are built with a hybrid structure. He explained that all components in the refrigeration circuit—compressor, condenser fan, and evaporator fans—already run on 400V electricity, making them easily adaptable to various energy sources.

The unit can receive power from the following sources:

Diesel engine + generator

Truck ePTO connection

HV battery of electric trucks via AC-ePTO

When the AC-ePTO connection is used, the system can operate locally with zero emissions.

Smart Energy Management: First CE Socket, Then ePTO, Lastly Diesel

The system’s energy management works fully automatically. The sequence is as follows:

1. If the CE socket is connected, the unit draws power from there.

2. If not, it checks the ePTO connection.

3. If no energy source is available, the diesel engine automatically starts operating.

Steckel stated that this structure maximizes load security:

“The diesel engine is always ready as backup. This allows the solution to operate both dependent on the truck and completely independently.”

No Extra Battery, No Extra Weight

One of the key advantages of the new solution is that the trailer does not carry a high-voltage battery or generator axle. As a result:

No additional investment cost

No extra trailer weight

No additional HV battery

The truck’s existing HV battery is used

This structure provides a significant advantage especially in urban operations where overall transport capacity is critical.

User-Friendly Design and Quiet Operation

As with all SCU units, the SCUd 80 ePTO-ready model features:

Wide service doors

Simple and intuitive control panel

Special evaporator design requiring less defrost

Top-level noise reduction kit (standard)

Urban Trailer: Highly Maneuverable SKO City

At the exhibition, the SCUd 80 ePTO-ready was displayed with the SKO City trailer.

The showcased SKO City is a model developed specifically for urban logistics.

Key features include:

Easy operation in narrow streets thanks to its short body

High maneuverability with a steering rear axle

Electric shutter (powered by the taillift batteries)

Up to 40 tons payload capacity

Full compatibility with pallets, roll cages, and bulk cargo

Horizontal and vertical load securing systems

Dynamic dock protection system that self-adjusts upon loading dock contact

Front air circulation panel designed to optimize cold-air distribution and protect against impacts

The panel can be opened for easy access to the refrigeration unit during maintenance.

On Sale in Europe, Available for Turkey Upon Demand

The product is manufactured at Schmitz Cargobull’s Lithuania plant and is available across Europe. Steckel also mentioned the openness of the Turkish market:

“Our Adapazarı facility produces curtain-sider and standard refrigerated trailers. If there is demand, this version can be brought to Turkey.”