Thermo King’s next generation reefer unit for straight trucks
The T-690 & T-690 MAX diesel-powered refrigeration units for straight trucks feature industry leading capacity, maintenance intervals and temp control, as well as the most advanced technology on the market today.
Features:
2,000 hour maintenance interval – the longest in the industry
Premium HMI – the easiest to use and most power control interface
Opti-Set Plus – optimize unit settings and parameters to deliver what matters most to you, including temperature control, fuel savings and operator error elimination
Industry leading capacity – gives you faster pull-down, faster recovery after door openings, less fuel burned and fewer engine run hours to deliver results that matter to your bottom line
Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
The T-690 and T-690 MAX are part of Thermo King’s T-90 Series, a line of next-generation diesel-powered refrigeration units designed specifically for straight trucks. Thermo King, a brand under Trane Technologies, has long been recognized as an industry pioneer in transport refrigeration, and the T-90 Series continues this legacy by integrating advanced technology with customer-focused innovation. These units cater to the needs of businesses requiring reliable, efficient, and high-performance refrigeration for perishable goods transportation, typically in straight trucks with box sizes ranging from 14 to 24 feet.Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
Straight trucks, also known as box trucks, are widely used in local and regional delivery operations, such as food distribution, pharmaceutical transport, and floral delivery. The T-690 and T-690 MAX are engineered to meet the demands of these applications, offering industry-leading refrigeration capacity, extended maintenance intervals, and precise temperature control. The T-690 serves as the base model, while the T-690 MAX is an enhanced version designed for operators needing maximum capacity and performance under extreme conditions.
Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
Design and Engineering
Core Components
Both the T-690 and T-690 MAX are self-powered refrigeration units, meaning they operate independently of the truck’s engine via a dedicated diesel power source. This design ensures consistent cooling performance regardless of the vehicle’s operational status, a critical feature for maintaining cargo integrity during stops or idling periods. The units feature a robust compressor, larger coils, and heat exchangers optimized for efficiency and durability. The diesel engine, with a displacement of 14 cubic inches, is engineered for high-speed operation and reliability, delivering the power needed to maintain refrigeration in ambient temperatures up to 100°F.Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
The T-690 MAX distinguishes itself with enhancements such as optimized compressor and engine speeds, larger heat exchange surfaces, and a sound-reduction kit. These upgrades result in higher cooling capacity, faster temperature pull-down, and quieter operation, making it ideal for demanding applications or noise-sensitive delivery zones.
Controller and Interface
Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
A standout feature of both models is the premium Human-Machine Interface (HMI) controller, standard across the T-90 Series. This controller features an intuitive, symbolic interface displayed on an easy-to-read LCD screen, providing drivers and operators with clear, on-screen instructions. The system allows for precise temperature settings and adjustments, reducing the likelihood of operator error. Technologies like QuickTemp, Cycle-Sentry mode, and Fuel Saver II are integrated into the controller, enhancing efficiency and performance without requiring constant driver intervention.Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
QuickTemp technology, for instance, leverages an electronic throttling valve system to accelerate initial temperature pull-down and recovery rates—up to 30% faster than competitors—while reducing fuel consumption by up to 35% and engine runtime by 25%. Cycle-Sentry mode optimizes the unit’s on/off cycling to maintain temperature while conserving fuel, and Fuel Saver II further enhances efficiency by fine-tuning engine performance.
Telematics Integration
Both units come equipped with Thermo King’s ConnectedSuite™ telematics hardware, a built-in feature that streamlines fleet management. This system provides real-time visibility into critical data points such as temperature (current and historical), door openings, truck location, and unit performance. The integration with TracKing® Cellular connectivity allows fleet operators to monitor their refrigeration units remotely, diagnose issues quickly, and ensure compliance with food safety regulations like the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
Key Features and Benefits
Industry-Leading Capacity
The T-690 and T-690 MAX are designed to deliver exceptional refrigeration capacity, ensuring rapid temperature pull-down and swift recovery after door openings—a common occurrence in delivery operations. The T-690 MAX, in particular, offers enhanced capacity to handle extreme temperature control requirements, making it suitable for transporting highly perishable goods like frozen foods or temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals. This capability translates to less fuel burned, fewer engine run hours, and ultimately, lower operational costs.
Extended Maintenance Intervals
With a maintenance interval of 2,000 hours, these units reduce downtime and maintenance costs compared to earlier models or competitors. This extended interval is supported by durable components and features like synthetic oil (included in the optional Arctic Package), which enhances engine longevity and performance in harsh conditions.
Fuel efficiency is a cornerstone of the T-690 and T-690 MAX design. Features like QuickTemp, Cycle-Sentry, and electronic door switches work in tandem to minimize fuel consumption while maintaining precise temperature control. Additionally, the units support SmartPower electric standby, allowing operators to run the refrigeration system on electric power when stationary. This feature can reduce fuel costs by up to 75%, decrease engine wear, and lower emissions, aligning with growing sustainability demands in the transportation industry.
ThermoLite® solar panels, available in 40-watt and 110-watt versions, complement the units by charging batteries and reducing the need for jumpstarts or frequent battery replacements. The 110-watt panels can also power lift gates, enhancing operational flexibility for trucks equipped with this feature.
Noise pollution is a significant concern in urban delivery environments. The T-690 MAX includes a sound-reduction kit as standard, minimizing its acoustic footprint during operation. An optional noise-reduction package is available for both models, further lowering decibel levels to meet local regulations and reduce disturbance to nearby residents.
Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
Cold Weather Performance
For operators in cold climates, the optional Arctic Package ensures reliable performance. This package includes snow covers, synthetic oil, and a block heater, facilitating easy engine starts and consistent operation in snowy or subzero conditions. This adaptability makes the T-690 and T-690 MAX viable for year-round use across diverse geographic regions.Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
Cargo Protection and Compliance
The OptiSet Plus feature allows operators to customize unit settings and parameters, optimizing temperature control, fuel savings, or operator simplicity based on specific cargo needs. Pre-set profiles can be loaded by Thermo King dealers to match the requirements of different loads, ensuring compliance with stringent regulations for perishable goods. The TouchPrint Premium package, which includes dual temperature sensors, a remote status light, and a wired door switch, enhances monitoring and documentation capabilities, providing a robust solution for maintaining cargo quality and traceability.Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
Applications and Market Fit
The T-690 and T-690 MAX are tailored for Class 5–7 straight trucks, typically with box lengths of 14 to 24 feet, making them ideal for small to medium-sized delivery fleets. Their primary applications include:
1.Food Distribution: Grocery stores, restaurants, and food service providers rely on these units to transport fresh and frozen goods, such as produce, dairy, meat, and seafood, while maintaining strict temperature ranges (e.g., 35°F for fresh, 0°F for frozen, or -20°F for deep-frozen products).Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
2.Pharmaceutical Transport: The precise temperature control and telematics features make these units suitable for delivering temperature-sensitive medications and vaccines, where deviations can compromise efficacy.
3.Floral Delivery: Florists benefit from the units’ ability to maintain consistent cool temperatures, preserving the freshness and appearance of flowers during transit.Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
4.Catering and Event Services: These units support the transport of prepared foods for events, ensuring safety and quality over short to medium distances.
The T-690 is well-suited for standard refrigeration needs, while the T-690 MAX targets operators requiring higher capacity or operating in extreme conditions, such as high ambient temperatures or frequent door openings. Their versatility makes them a strong fit for both independent owner-operators and larger fleets.
Comparison to Other T-90 Series Models
The T-90 Series includes several models—such as the T-590, T-890, T-890 MAX, T-1090, and T-1090 MAX—each designed for specific truck sizes and capacity needs. The T-690 sits between the entry-level T-590 (optimized for smaller trucks) and the higher-capacity T-890 and T-1090 models (suited for larger straight trucks up to 28 feet). The T-690 MAX, meanwhile, bridges the gap between the T-690 and T-890 MAX, offering a balance of enhanced performance and compact design.Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
Compared to the T-590, the T-690 and T-690 MAX provide greater cooling capacity and are better suited for mid-sized trucks with more demanding schedules. Against the T-890 and T-1090, they offer a more compact footprint, making them easier to install and maintain on smaller vehicles while still delivering robust performance. The MAX variants across the series (T-690 MAX, T-890 MAX, T-1090 MAX) share upgrades like larger coils and sound reduction, but the T-690 MAX stands out for its efficiency in the 14–24-foot truck segment.
Industry Context and Competitive Landscape
Thermo King competes with brands like Carrier Transicold, which offers models such as the Supra series for straight trucks. While Carrier units are known for their durability and electric-powered options, Thermo King’s T-690 and T-690 MAX differentiate themselves with integrated telematics, longer maintenance intervals, and advanced fuel-saving technologies. The T-90 Series’ emphasis on connectivity and real-time data aligns with the industry’s shift toward smart logistics and IoT-enabled fleet management.Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
The refrigerated transport market is growing, driven by rising demand for fresh and frozen goods, e-commerce expansion, and stricter regulatory oversight. The T-690 and T-690 MAX are positioned to capitalize on these trends, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and compliance that appeals to modern fleet operators.
Operational Considerations
Installation and Maintenance
Installing the T-690 or T-690 MAX requires professional expertise, typically provided by Thermo King-certified dealers. The units are designed for straightforward integration onto straight trucks, with options like evaporator guards and solar panels available from the factory. Maintenance is simplified by the 2,000-hour interval and access to genuine Thermo King parts, ensuring maximum uptime.Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
Cost and ROI
Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
While exact pricing varies by region and configuration, the T-690 and T-690 MAX are premium offerings, reflecting their advanced features and reliability. The initial investment is offset by fuel savings, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced cargo protection, delivering a strong return on investment for operators with consistent refrigeration needs.
Driver Experience
The intuitive HMI and automated features minimize the learning curve for drivers, allowing them to focus on the road rather than managing the refrigeration unit. Telematics further reduce driver workload by enabling remote monitoring and diagnostics, a boon for fleet efficiency.Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
Conclusion
The T-690 and T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Units exemplify Thermo King’s commitment to innovation, reliability, and customer satisfaction. With industry-leading capacity, cutting-edge technology, and a focus on efficiency, these units meet the diverse needs of today’s refrigerated transport industry. Whether delivering fresh produce to a local market or ensuring pharmaceutical integrity across a region, the T-690
The T-690 Series
Delivering the capacity, reliability and uptime that fit your demanding schedule, the new T-90 Series of self-powered truck refrigeration units truly offer MORE.
The development of the T-90 Series of refrigeration units for straight trucks continues Thermo King’s legacy of customer-focused innovation.
Taking self-powered truck refrigeration to a new level, the next generation T-90 Series offers the right solutions for today’s challenges.
Whether you’re looking for more capacity, trustworthy reliability and performance, fuel efficiency, unprecedented temperature pull-down and recovery, convenient maintenance intervals, or all of the above the T-90 Series will not let you down.
Buy T-690 & T-690 MAX Straight Truck Reefer Unit Online
More capacity
Improved coil designs and optimized engine management, along with many additional improvements, deliver elevated performance — a performance that boasts an increased capacity of up to 35 percent.
Thermo King Reciprocating Compressors
The entire T-90 Series features the latest Thermo King designed and manufactured reciprocating compressors that surpass the technology of the past. With continuously improved reliability, today’s X-214 and X-430 reciprocating compressors are a key component of our new design.
Taking it to the MAX
Customers who need maximum capacity have new options that offer even more capacity. Choose confidently from the T-1090 MAX, T-890 MAX or T-690 MAX models to best meet your extreme temp control requirements, all featuring larger coils and heat exchangers, optimized compressor and engine speeds, and a sound-reduction kit to deliver quieter performance.
With an extended maintenance interval (EMI) of 2,000 hours — the longest in the industry — downtime, and costs are minimized. With longer maintenance intervals, you save money by reducing environmental impact and downtime.
Thermo King SR Control System
It’s hard to beat how this powerful and simple-to-use controller ensures accurate temperature control and efficient operation that delivers industry-leading fuel savings and temperature control. With on-screen instructions, the premium HMI offers a symbolic interface and easy-to-read LCD display that makes precise setting and adjusting of the reefer quick and easy. Using QuickTemp technology, cycle-sentry mode, Fuel Saver II technology, and electronic door switches will all contribute to fuel savings. All of which operate seamlessly in the background; allowing your drivers to do what they do best … drive.
SmartPower™ Electric Standby
Running your refrigeration unit on electric power when stationary is simply smart. Save fuel, reduce engine wear, and decrease emissions. Using SmartPower electric standby can save you up to 75% on fuel costs – now that’s smart.
QuickTemp Technology
Key laboratory application tests have shown that when using QuickTemp technology, the initial pull-down and recovery rates in the T-90 Series are up to 30 percent faster, fuel consumption is reduced by up to 35 percent, and engine runtime is decreased by up to 25 percent versus the competition. Along with these savings, you get better control of cargo temperature and longer unit life because of our patent-pending refrigeration control system.
More reliability
Advancements in technology and innovation must be proven reliable before they are incorporated into our designs. This is at the core of who Thermo King is. Another key piece of our heritage, and an extension of the products themselves, is our unmatched service and support.
When you choose a T-90 Series truck unit, you choose Thermo King, an industry pioneer who is invested in your success.
24/7 mobile service in most locations
Extensive product qualification including lab testing at our world-class testing facilities and field testing with real customers in real applications
Thermo gard® Assurance – guaranteed maintenance plans that optimize fleet efficiencies and reduce management costs
Access to a complete line of Thermo King genuine parts for maximum uptime
The integrated Thermo King telematics hardware opens the door to TracKing® Cellular. Connectivity to the units of the T-90 Series, and your cargo, has never been easier.
USB Service Connectivity
Easier diagnostics and flash loading of system settings are at your fingertips.
Premium HMI
Standard on the T-90 Series, users benefit from the improved user interface, diagnostic capabilities, and ease of use.
OptiSet® Plus
Featured in both the single-temperature and multi-temperature models, OptiSet Plus ensures that temperatures are optimized and personalized with pre-set profiles for your cargo. Your Thermo King certified dealer can help you get the most out of your refrigeration equipment, pre-loading your OptiSet Plus profiles specific to your operational needs to ensure your refrigeration unit delivers what you expect. Trip after trip, you can be confident that temperature set points and ranges, as well as the use of cycle-sentry mode, are locked into best match your needs while taking the guesswork out of your driver’s day.
Available as add-on features as well as in packages designed to meet common needs, we are confident that you will end up with the refrigeration unit right for your business.
Solar Panels
Available in both 40 watt and 110-watt versions, our ThermoLite® solar panels are the perfect complement to the T-90 Series of units by helping to reduce costs of battery replacements, jumpstart, and fuel consumption. The larger 110-watt solar panels can also be used to keep your lift gates operating all day long.
Evaporator Guards
Available from the factory, these rugged aluminum evaporator guards protect your multi-temp remote evaporators from damage.
Whisper Noise Reduction
This package minimizes your impact on neighbors during deliveries by reducing unit noise.
Arctic Package
Ensuring reliable operation and easy engine starts for customers operating in cold and snowy conditions, the arctic package includes snow covers, synthetic oil and block heater.
Monitor Package
This package offers visibility to temperature – both current and throughout a delivery, door openings, truck location, and more. TouchPrint Premium with two temperature sensors, a remote status light, and a wired door switch are all included.
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