Electrified Trucking: Vanair’s New Ecosystem Signals a Shift in Mobile Power
The Class 8 trucking industry is undergoing a quiet revolution in mobile power, moving away from reliance on idling engines and towards integrated, electrified solutions. Vanair’s recent unveiling of its EPEQ Electrified Power Equipment ecosystem at the Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Meeting in Nashville marks a significant step in this evolution, offering fleets a battery-electric alternative to traditional auxiliary power units (APUs).
The Rising Cost of Idling and Aging Fleets
For decades, truck drivers have relied on idling engines to power heating, cooling, and essential electrical systems during rest stops. Though, this practice isn’t just costly in terms of fuel consumption; it also contributes to increased wear and tear on engines, leading to higher maintenance expenses. This issue is becoming increasingly critical as truck rotation cycles lengthen. Trucks are now staying in service for 12 years or more, a significant jump from the previous average of seven to ten years. This extended lifespan, coupled with the growing power demands of telematics, GPS, and in-cab entertainment, is accelerating battery and electrical system failures.
EPEQ: A Scalable Power Ecosystem
Vanair’s EPEQ system isn’t simply a replacement APU; it’s a modular, integrated power ecosystem designed to scale to specific application needs. At its core are 48-volt ELiMENT batteries, now featuring IP67-rated enclosures for enhanced protection against dust and water. These 5kW modules can be scaled up to 30kW, offering substantial power capacity. The system includes inverters and options for solar charging, providing a comprehensive solution for reducing engine idling and lowering operational costs.
“Drivers need reliable heating, cooling, and electrical power without running the main engine,” explains Chip Jones, Vanair’s national manager of the Electrified Products Group. “What we bring to this market is not a single-purpose APU. It’s a complete, integrated power ecosystem that scales to the application.”
Beyond Sleeper Cabs: Expanding Applications
The EPEQ system extends beyond simply powering sleeper cab “hotel loads” – the heating, cooling, and appliances drivers apply during downtime. Vanair is also offering 12-volt solutions for day cabs and regional haulers, as well as the EPEQ EPTO, a battery-driven hydraulic system capable of delivering up to 9 gallons per minute of flow. This allows for the operation of liftgates and pumps without idling the truck engine, further reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Harnessing the Sun: Solar Integration for Extended Battery Life
Recognizing the importance of maximizing battery life, Vanair has integrated solar charging capabilities into the EPEQ ecosystem. The EPEQ Solar Assist panels, designed to conform to cab fairings or trailer rooftops, utilize shade-resilient mesh to generate energy even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Fleet data suggests that solar battery tending can extend battery life by up to 200%, potentially eliminating one to two battery replacements per vehicle rotation cycle.
The Future of Mobile Power: Trends to Watch
Vanair’s EPEQ system is indicative of several key trends shaping the future of mobile power in the trucking industry:
- Electrification as Standard: Battery-electric solutions are no longer a niche offering but are rapidly becoming a standard expectation for fleets seeking to reduce costs and improve sustainability.
- Integrated Ecosystems: The move towards integrated power ecosystems, like Vanair’s EPEQ, will continue, offering greater efficiency, reliability, and ease of maintenance.
- Solar Power Adoption: Solar integration will grow increasingly common as fleets seek to maximize battery life and reduce their reliance on shore power or alternator charging.
- Focus on Battery Technology: Advancements in battery technology, particularly lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, will drive further improvements in energy density, lifespan, and safety.
FAQ
Q: What is an APU?
A: An Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) provides power to a truck’s systems when the engine is off, traditionally by running a separate diesel engine.
Q: What are LiFePO4 batteries?
A: Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries are a type of lithium-ion battery known for their safety, long lifespan, and thermal stability.
Q: What is the benefit of using solar power with a truck’s battery system?
A: Solar power can extend battery life by providing a continuous trickle charge, reducing the need for frequent alternator charging or shore power connections.
Q: Is the EPEQ system compatible with all Class 8 trucks?
A: The modular design of the EPEQ system allows for flexible installation options, making it compatible with a wide range of Class 8 truck models.
Did you know? Reducing engine idling by even a few hours per day can result in significant fuel savings and a reduction in carbon emissions.
Pro Tip: Regular battery maintenance, including cleaning terminals and monitoring charge levels, is crucial for maximizing the lifespan of any battery system.
Want to learn more about the latest advancements in trucking technology? Explore resources from the Technology & Maintenance Council.
