Freezer chest that fits in the trunk hidden compartment

[Lanzer]

I've been doing an exhaustive search on which cooler has a perfect fit on the M3 trunk's hidden compartment. So far the best contender is a freezer bag called "AO Canvas" which still falls short for being 8.5" in height when the compartment is at least 10" tall. Once I'm done I'll share the spreadsheet with everyone.

Though during my search I came across all the electronic coolers, and found a couple that not only keeps cool but have a compressor which can actually keep freezing temperatures. In particular, one actually fits in the hidden compartment. Though the downside is that the chest can only hold 15 liters, it still fall under the category of fitting in the trunk's hidden compartment that I can always have it with me.

It just so happens that there is a lightning deal on the chest for 20% off, so I figured I'd post here before I finished my research.

(note that the deal expires at 3PM, July 17)
Alpicool CL15 Portable Freezer

I'll post a review after playing around with it.

 

[ezevphl]

There was a blog where someone did find a cooler with 12v power that fits in there perfectly. Not sure if it was that exact one.

 

[David L]

Are you planning to route the cord through the edges of the rear seat back to the accessory plug in the center console? I'd be concerned with dissipation of the heat extracted by refrigeration, if there isn't enough airflow around the cooler. Please keep us posted on how well it works!

 

[Lanzer]

I am planning to keep the freezer in the compartment for transport only. Once it is turned on, it makes more sense for the chest to be in the back seat (make the AC work harder but the freezer work less) or to have it in the trunk. I would worry about heat dissipation if I leave it in the hidden compartment while turned on. Though I will definitely do a bit of monitoring to see if that is possible. Maybe add a usb fan or something.

 

[rhaekar]

I am planning to keep the freezer in the compartment for transport only. Once it is turned on, it makes more sense for the chest to be in the back seat (make the AC work harder but the freezer work less) or to have it in the trunk. I would worry about heat dissipation if I leave it in the hidden compartment while turned on. Though I will definitely do a bit of monitoring to see if that is possible. Maybe add a usb fan or something.

I was thinking the same thing. The heat exchange can't be good if you're cramming it in a tight spot like that. It'd probably make it work extra hard and kill the longevity.

 

[ZoomsansVroom]

We use Engel portable freezers, at work. Obviously, you will need to have a supply of air exchange. They will not work in most trunks, but a ski pass through is enough to let them work.

 

[James88]

Love the slogan. "We make you feel cool"

 

[Lanzer]

Love the slogan. "We make you feel cool"

The dad who came up with this must be proud

 

[groovidad]

The rear compartment “well” is not an option. As stated, air circulation and heat dissipation is critical. Why not look at something that has a length as wide as up-against the back seat back and 1-1.5ft width that fits nicely AND has the volume to hold your items(?)

 

[ewoodrick]

I open the door on a hotel mini fridge because it is easy to see what happens when the heat can't dissipate, the unit can't cool. A freezer would be much worse.

And don't forget, even in the back seat, the car AC would have to work harder

 

[RSL2020]

Yeah, I'm thinking it just be so much easier to but a bag of ice. Seems most coolers keep ice for over 24 hour nowadays. Thanks for the info.

 

[RayK]

Somebody should convert the Model 3 trunk well into what my wife's Honda Ridgeline has as an under-bed storage compartment:

There is a drain hole at the bottom which allows the water to escape. We haven't done this with the wife's truck yet but I like the idea.