Truck operators no longer need to idle their truck engine to run their televisions and microwaves, or to heat and air condition their sleepers, thanks to the Idle Free Hybrid System, now available as an option from Mack Trucks Inc.

The system utilizes battery power to provide reliable electrical power and to save fuel. Mack is the first truck manufacturer to offer the Idle Free Hybrid System.
"The smart operator wants to avoid idling these days," said Jerry Warmkessel, Mack marketing product manager, highway products. "The price of fuel is near record levels, many local and state environmental regulations strictly limit the amount of time trucks may idle, and fleets now recognize the increased maintenance costs of excessive idling."
The environmental and financial benefits of reducing idling are huge. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates heavy-duty truck idling in the U.S. consumes 960 million gallons of diesel fuel annually, at a current cost of around $2.80 per gallon, and the average heavy-duty truck burns 0.8 gallons per hour. According to EPA, truck idling results in annual emissions of 11 million tons of CO2, 180,000 tons of NOx and 5,000 tons of particulates.
At the same time, drivers need a comfortable environment during non-driving hours and that they want the freedom to use electric devices while off-duty.
The system uses a bank of high-efficiency absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries to provide stored electrical power for heating, air conditioning and amenities, such as TV or microwave. The sealed AGM batteries are known for their durable, long-life operation, and can be safely housed inside the truck. The bank of five AGM batteries is stored under the sleeper's bunk.
The batteries can be recharged three different ways: by the truck's alternator when the engine is running; through a shore power connection when the vehicle is stopped; or through an available connection to the reefer unit for tractors hauling refrigerated trailers. When the truck is not moving, the driver can use battery power or shore power to run heating, air conditioning and amenities. The system provides either 12- or 120-volt power.
Idle Free uses a Xantrex Prosine 2000W inverter/charger to control and regulate electrical power, as well as to charge both the Idle Free batteries and the truck's batteries. Mack's complete climate control package includes a Webasto diesel-fired heater and a Dometic HVAC unit. The Odyssey AGM 31 batteries have the ability to run the AC for 10 hours with an outside air temperature of 90 degrees.
According to Warmkessel, Idle Free has advantages over traditional auxiliary power units. The total weight of the system, with five batteries, inverter, HVAC and controls is 370 pounds, which is less than many APUs. It is also quiet, does not consume fuel, requires no maintenance, and is not subject to local idling restrictions.
For more information about Mack, visit www.macktrucks.com.