The feasibility of an exhaust gas operated open cycle absorption airconditioning system for transport vans is studied. The exhaust gas characteristics of a typical petrol or diesel engine indicate that at full load the cooling potential in the exhaust gas is far in excess to that required for its internal space to be cooled. Open regeneration is possible on the specially designed roof-top of the van and the open cycle absorption cooling (OCAC) unit can be integrated with the engine. The mechanical energy to run a small vacuum pump to evacuate the absorber-evaporator assembly and to recirculate the solution and refigerant (water) may be fed by the engine shaft through gears. The operating cost of such a system is almost negligible, although this slightly increases the operational cost of the van. This concept is useful for preventing food spoilage during the transport of food from remote production centres to the distant market. Moreover, the study enhances the concept of the waste energy utilisation process.