Peterbilt Adds Auto-Start to SmartAir No-Idle System
Peterbilt has added auto-start technology to its SmartAir no-idle system to help keep main and auxiliary batteries charged while running the air conditioning system and using other electronic devices.

Image: Peterbilt

Peterbilt has added auto-start technology to its SmartAir no-idle system to help keep main and auxiliary batteries charged while running the air conditioning system and using other electronic devices.
The auto-start technology monitors the charges of main and auxiliary batteries while the truck ignition is off. If the charge falls below a certain level, the system will automatically start the truck and run the engine until batteries are sufficiently charged. The system performs safety checks before cranking the engine, and interlocks ensure that the system will not unexpectedly start.
Auto-start is available as a factory-installed, fully integrated option with Model 579s equipped with SmartAir and either a 72- or 80-inch sleeper.
SmartAir has a 7,500 BTU/hour cooling capacity and can operate for up to 10 hours on a single charge. The split-system design is located outside the cab to improve performance and increase under-bunk storage capacity. It is a factory installed option that is integrated into the existing HVAC system that uses existing ducting. The system is controlled through an in-sleeper LCD display.
More Fuel Smarts

DTNA Software Update Gives Truckers More Time Before DEF Derates Take Effect
The changes reflect EPA guidance aimed at reducing downtime caused by emissions-system faults while maintaining compliance requirements.
Read More →
New Agentic Predictive Maintenance Report Demonstrates How Degraded Aftertreatment Systems Waste Fuel
Questar analyzed a large mixed-class fleet and discovered it was wasting as much as $30 in fuel per vehicle, per day, because of mechanically degraded aftertreatment systems.
Read More →
New York City's Microhub Project is Delivering Results
Trucking, last-mile delivery companies, and environmental advocates like what they are seeing so far with New York's microhub program.
Read More →
Lessons Learned About Alternative Fuels: Start Small, Stay Flexible
Practical advice on adopting alternative fuels and ZEVs from HDT's 2026 Top Green Fleets, from renewable diesel and natural gas to electric trucks.
Read More →
Kempower Adds Flex EV Charger to Help Support Transition to Megawatt Charging
The Kempower Mega Satellite Flex has both a CCS and MCS connector, allowing operators to serve both types of heavy-duty vehicles.
Read More →
Hino Adds Electric Class 6/7 Truck
Hino says the Le Series is an important step in the company's efforts to reduce environmental impact and support its customers’ sustainability goals.
Read More →
Can Multi-Speed EV Transmissions Solve Heavy Trucking’s Biggest Electric-Vehicle Problems?
A startup called Sigma Powertrain believes purpose-built multi-speed gearboxes can boost efficiency, reduce battery size and improve gradeability for heavy-duty battery-electric trucks.
Read More →
Hendrickson Debuts Electraax E-Axle for Medium-Duty Trucks
Developed with Driventic, Hendrickson's new integrated e-axle is designed to improve efficiency, reduce weight, and extend range in Class 6-7 EV applications.
Read More →
50 Ways Fleets Can Cut Fuel Costs Now — Without Buying New Trucks
Fuel savings don’t come from one big change. They come from dozens of small ones. Here’s how leading fleets are stacking gains across drivers, routing, maintenance, and more.
Read More →
Top Green Fleets 2026: How Fleets Are Reducing Emissions in the Real World
What works in sustainable trucking today? Heavy Duty Trucking's Top Green Fleets are finding practical ways to cut fuel use, reduce emissions, and keep freight moving.
Read More →
