Atlas, 50006039, N Scale, Gunderson Cryogenic Reefer, GATX, #68075

About the Model:

• Atlas’ upgraded models will feature:

  •Body mounted couplers

  •Improved brake wheel

  •Improved stirrups

  •Improved crossover platform

  
  Metal Wheelsets

About the Prototype:

🧊 Overview of the Gunderson Cryogenic Reefer (CRYO‑TRANS)

The modern cryogenic reefer concept traces back to the early 1980s, when inventor Ralph Hill began developing CO₂‑based cryogenic refrigeration systems for rail transport. His work eventually led to the founding of Cryo‑Trans (CRYX), which partnered with Gunderson (later part of Greenbrier) to build the distinctive high‑cube cryogenic refrigerator cars.

🛠️ When They First Came Out

The first production Cryo‑Trans cryogenic reefers were built by Gunderson in 1986, beginning with cars such as CRYX 1000–1002. Additional batches followed through the late 1980s and early 1990s, with multiple series produced between 1986 and 1991.

These early cars used liquid CO₂ as the cooling medium, stored in tanks at the B‑end of the car. They were designed to haul frozen foods—especially potatoes and processed products for companies like Simplot and Lamb Weston.

📦 How Many Were Built?

Exact totals are difficult to determine because Cryo‑Trans’ fleet evolved through new construction, rebuilds, and acquisitions. However:

• Approximately 331 true cryogenic (CO₂‑based) cars existed by 1995.

• The overall Cryo‑Trans fleet—including later mechanical reefers—reached around 2,200 cars, most of them built by Gunderson/Greenbrier.

This means the cryogenic cars were a relatively small but important subset of the total fleet.

🚂 Are They Still in Service?

The original CO₂ cryogenic reefers from the 1980s–1990s are largely retired. Many were withdrawn by the early 2000s as mechanical refrigeration became more efficient and flexible. Numerous cars from the cryogenic fleet were later converted into mechanical reefers, and these rebuilt cars remain in service today under Cryo‑Trans and Lineage Logistics.

Railfans still occasionally spot former cryogenic cars—now mechanically cooled—running in dedicated food service trains.

📝 Summary

• First built: 1986 (Gunderson for Cryo‑Trans)

• Cryogenic cars built: ~331 CO₂‑based cars by mid‑1990s

• Total Cryo‑Trans fleet: ~2,200 cars (including mechanical reefers)

• Current status: Cryogenic cars mostly retired; many later or rebuilt mechanical reefers still active