Top Refrigerated Trucks In India Power Cold Chain

India’s cold chain logistics sector is expanding rapidly, driven by rising demand for temperature-sensitive transportation across food, pharmaceuticals and chemical segments. To support this growth, commercial vehicle manufacturers are introducing advanced refrigerated truck solutions that combine performance, efficiency and reliability. Brands such as Ashok Leyland, Eicher, Tata, Mahindra and BharatBenz are actively strengthening their portfolios to meet the evolving needs of cold supply operators.

What Is A Refrigerated Truck And How It Works

A refrigerated truck, commonly known as a reefer, is a specialised commercial vehicle designed to transport perishable goods at controlled temperatures. Cooling is maintained through a Transport Refrigeration Unit operated independently via a diesel or electric motor. The operator controls the temperature using a control panel, while ducts installed inside the cargo body ensure even air circulation. These trucks typically operate in temperature ranges between minus 20 degrees Celsius and minus 25 degrees Celsius, enabling safe transportation of chilled, frozen and deep-frozen products.

Key Applications Of Reefer Trucks In India

Reefer trucks are widely used for transporting meat, ice cream, dairy products, fruits, vegetables and seafood. Beyond food logistics, they also play a critical role in carrying pharmaceuticals such as vaccines and medicines, along with chemicals, cosmetics, flowers, plants and certain electronic components that require temperature stability during transit.

Ashok Leyland Bada Dost i5 XL Reefer

The Ashok Leyland Bada Dost i5 XL is powered by a 3-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine producing 80 hp and 190 Nm of torque. With a gross vehicle weight of 3,490 kg and a payload capacity of 1,758 kg, it is suitable for last-mile cold chain operations. The truck offers a 50-litre fuel tank, power steering, reinforced chassis and tubeless tyres. Prices start from Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom), with the reefer body installed through certified body builders.

Eicher Pro X Reefer 3.5T

Eicher’s Pro X Reefer 3.5T is an all-electric refrigerated truck equipped with an 80 kW PMSM motor and a 40 kWh battery pack delivering 300 Nm torque. It offers a certified driving range of 220 km and supports fast charging options. While the rated payload is 1,700 kg, the reefer configuration supports 555 kg. The truck features regenerative braking, drive modes, hill hold assist and a temperature monitoring system. Prices begin at Rs 17.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

Tata 1012 LPT Reefer

Designed for longer hauls, the Tata 1012 LPT Reefer uses a 4-cylinder diesel engine delivering 123.37 hp and 300 Nm torque. It offers multiple wheelbase options, a 120-litre fuel tank, DEF system, telematics, and dual driving modes. With claimed fuel efficiency close to 8 kmpl, prices start at Rs 19.53 lakh (ex-showroom).

Mahindra Furio 12 And BharatBenz 2826R Reefers

The Mahindra Furio 12 Reefer delivers 138.12 hp and 525 Nm torque, supports inter-city operations and offers wheelbases up to 5,450 mm. Prices begin at Rs 21.94 lakh. At the heavy-duty end, the BharatBenz 2826R Reefer produces 250 hp and 950 Nm torque, features a 355-litre fuel tank and multiple wheelbase options. Prices start from Rs 41.20 lakh (ex-showroom).

Challenges And Business Outlook

Despite higher acquisition and operating costs, reefer trucks remain highly profitable due to the premium nature of perishable cargo. Infrastructure gaps during loading and unloading remain a challenge, but with proper container insulation and reliable refrigeration units, cold chain logistics continues to offer strong long-term returns.