Marten Transport Ltd. of Mondovi, Wis., has placed an order for more than 2,000 Thermo King TriPac Hybrid Auxiliary Idle Reduction and Temperature Management Systems (APUs). The systems will be installed over the next 18 months

on company-owned tractors.
The TriPac system provides drivers with heat, engine pre-heat, air conditioning, accessory power and battery charging while reducing idling, conserving fuel and extending tractor engine service intervals.
"We expect to virtually eliminate engine idle time while still maintaining driver comfort," said Randy Marten, chairman, president and chief executive officer, Marten Transport.
Marten also expects a big impact on the bottom line from the TriPac systems. Once the systems are implemented and assuming the cost of fuel remains high, the company expects to realize an approximate monthly fuel savings of $1 million and to recover the cost of the systems in as little as 12-18 months.
Marten was initially introduced to the TriPac system through a grant from the state of Wisconsin to test the effectiveness of APUs. The company chose to test the Thermo King TriPac system because of its long history with the quality and reliability of Thermo King's reefer units. "One key reason we went with the TriPac system was the support of the Thermo King dealer network, which ensures us of expert, consistent service nationwide," said Robert Smith, chief operating officer, Marten Transport.