LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Carrier upgraded its X-series single-temperature trailer unit to offer a more esthetically pleasing design, while improving sound quality and serviceability.

Carrier Transicold’s X2-Series single-temperature trailer unit was on display during the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ky. from March 22 to 24.

“Mid-America is a perfect showplace for the X2-Series,” said Ignacio Aguerrevere, Carrier Transicold’s director of marketing and product development. “Fleets and owner/operators have come to know the original X-Series as the standard of reliability and durability. Ever since the first production models rolled out late in 2006, they’ve proven to be a popular choice among customers.”

At the 36th annual Mid-America Trucking Show, Carrier featured a 2100A unit with optional chrome package, one of four trailer models offered in the X2-Series: the 2500A, 2100A, 2100 and 1800.

At a setpoint of 35 F at 100 F ambient, the 2500A and 2500R have a cooling capacity of 66,000 BTU/h. At the same conditions, the 2100A, 2100R and 2100 deliver 64,000 BTU/h, and the 1800 provides 51,000 BTU/h.

“What distinguishes an X2 unit from the original X generation,” said Aguerrevere, “is its better appearance, better sound and better serviceability.”

The exterior redesign of the X2-Series provides more than just a modern new appearance. Compared to the X-Series’ panels, X2-Series doors, made of advanced DuraShell 2 material, have triple the impact strength, double the UV light resistance, 50% better thermal stability and 20% better heat resistance.

Improved sound quality comes from several design changes. Full-length side doors, door seals and tighter tolerances reduce noise levels. The DuraShell 2 twin-sheet panel construction, acoustic foam on the interior surfaces and integrated door seals help contain sound output.

The re-designed grille’s wider openings reduce airflow resistance, helping to further improve sound quality. For additional sound reduction, an optional composite bottom panel is available.

X2-Series units are designed with hinged side doors that open all the way to the top, providing total access with the flip of a single latch on each side door. The front panels swing open from the center with a single latch release. Also, the control box is larger with a tilted display that is easier for drivers and technicians to read.

The X2-Series continues the tradition inherent in the design of Carrier X-Series systems: a combination of a high-performance six-cylinder compressor and a fuel-efficient 2.2-liter DI (direct injection) engine.

The optional chrome package offered by Carrier also extends to its line of auxiliary power units (APUs). For the ComfortPro APU, Carrier dealers offer two aftermarket chrome kits: a smooth chrome finish and a diamond-plate finish.

As for the refrigeration units, new X2-Series are white with a black grille, trim and latches, however an optional package includes chrome latches for the access panels and a bright chrome grille to contrast with the unit’s black trim.

In addition to the new look, Carrier has utilized third-party services to turn its refrigeration equipment into a fleet management system. Carrier has teamed up with a number of telematics providers to offer GPS services and telematics, which will be compatible with equipment manufactured by Carrier.

“Through the DataTrak protocol, we’ve made it easy for telematics providers to access our units and, in turn, we’ve given the fleets more flexibility and options,” said Mark Fragnito, Carrier Transicold’s product manager of electronics.

As of March 2007, the growing list of telematics providers offering services compatible with Carrier’s DataTrak protocol includes: Qualcomm, StarTrak, Terion, PAR Logistics Management Systems, Satamatics and InterLink Logistics Technologies.

DataTrak is a software upgrade for Carrier’s truck and trailer unit controllers, which allows microprocessor information to be extracted via the providers’ telematics systems.

“Over-the-road applications are many and varied,” Fragnito said. “Use of telematics for refrigerated fleets can help avert load loss by assuring units have enough fuel, are set correctly and running properly throughout a trip. They can remotely control tasks such as starting the unit, selecting temperature setpoints, adjusting temperature during deliveries or running diagnostic routines. And remote data transmission also simplifies centralized recordkeeping for Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) monitoring.”