Sono Solar and MTTE are intensifying their partnership, which began in 2022, and are presenting the first fully integrated solar solution for electric and hybrid refrigeration units in semi-trailers. The aim is to make transport refrigeration more sustainable, more efficient, and less dependent on diesel power.
The jointly developed solution combines MTTE’s TEF1500 electric/hybrid refrigeration unit – including battery unit – with a powerful complete solar system from Sono Solar. This comprises highly efficient solar modules and an intelligent charge controller that continuously supplies the battery with free, green solar power.
“We are delighted about this cooperation with such a renowned partner. Together, we can now offer one of the first solar solutions for the European market, supported by MTTE’s strong expertise and service network,” explains Jan Schiermeister, Managing Director of Sono Solar.
A fully equipped semi-trailer with the integrated system is now available for testing. Interested freight forwarders, refrigerated transport companies, and fleet operators can contact the partner companies directly. Expansion to other vehicle types, such as small vans, is already in the planning stage.
Björn Reckhorn, Managing Director of MTTE, emphasizes: “We are delighted to be working with Sono Solar to take solar integration for refrigerated vehicles to a new level in terms of both quality and quantity. We clearly see electrically powered refrigeration units with solar integration on the vehicle roof as the future of transport refrigeration.”
With this solution, the two companies are responding to the growing demand for low-emission refrigerated transport in the European market – particularly with regard to regulatory requirements, fuel savings, and CO₂ reduction. The new collaboration can already be experienced at Nufam in Karlsruhe from September 25-28, 2025, where both MTTE and Sono Solar will be presenting the solar solution.
