CN adding 200 EcoTherm containers

Canadian National on Tuesday said it has purchased 200 EcoTherm containers to “increase customer efficiency and help reduce energy consumption in its fast-growing temperature-sensitive intermodal markets.” CN will use the equipment to transport food, beverages, paints, and pharmaceuticals that require protection against low temperatures.

The acquisition brings CN’s EcoTherm fleet to almost 500 units, which CN claims is the largest in North America.

CN also announced the purchase of 25 EcoRide chassis, which weight 15% less than conventional chassis and are equipped with aerodynamic features such as side skirts and low-rolling resistance tires. CN says containers delivered on EcoRide chassis consume 8% to 11% less fuel than containers delivered on traditional chassis.

Jean-Jacques Ruest, CN executive vice-president and chief marketing officer, said: “EcoTherm and EcoRide are innovative technological advances that help CN reduce the energy intensity of its customers’ supply chains and position us to grow our business.”

CN says the super-insulated 40-foot EcoTherm container is an economical, green alternative to the 53-foot heated container; food and beverage customers can load the same volume of product in the 40-foot insulated container without the need for the blocking and bracing required in a 53-foot container.

EcoTherm has more insulation than a conventional diesel engine-powered “heater” container, enabling it to hold its interior temperature more effectively, CN says. This allows EcoTherm to retain the proper temperature for sensitive goods throughout a rail trip as long as 10 days with no need for an engine to burn fuel en route.