'EcoForward' technologies is the name behind the new transport refrigeration units and generator sets designed by Carrier Transicold for compliance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency diesel emissions standards, which change in 2013.

Transport refrigeration systems with these new technologies will consume significantly less fuel, operate more quietly, and deliver improved performance, Carrier claims, all while running cleaner than the models they'll replace. They'll be available in limited quantities by the end of the year and fully available in 2013.

Common to these new systems are 2.2-liter diesel engines based on Carrier’s established engine line and made "smarter" with the addition of sensors and electronic control modules. Performance gains from the application of ecoForward technologies mean that engine power can be reduced by 18 to 20%, putting them within the scope of EPA’s Tier 4 standard for non-highway engines rated at 11 to 25 hp. For trailer refrigeration, efficiency improvements result in a 5 to 20% reduction in fuel consumption compared to previous models, over a full range of operating conditions.

A new custom-designed engine emissions system (EES) adds emissions reduction and compliance with the California Air Resources Board ultra-low emissions standard.

EcoForward technologies are being applied to Carrier’s trailer refrigeration platforms, both the belt-driven units and the Vector hybrid diesel-electric units, as well as the PowerLine gen sets used with container refrigeration systems for overland intermodal applications.