Peterbilt has added a compact space-saver battery box for the no-idle SmartAir system available on Model 579 trucks.

The space-saver battery boxes store Odessy absorbed glass mat batteries and can be mounted in two postions on the right-hand of the back of the cab or on the left-hand side on the back of the sleeper. The space-saver box is made of lightweight aluminum and is available with either an aluminum or composite cover.

“Offering the space-saver battery box option for our Model 579 minimizes the weight and further reduces what was already the industry’s smallest footprint for a no-idle cooling system,” says Landon Sproull, Peterbilt’s chief engineer.

The SmartAir system is a no-idle cooling system which Peterbilt says can save in annual fuel costs, comply with anti-idle regulations and reduce a truck’s carbon footprint.

It has a 7,500 BTU/Hour cooling capacity and can operate for up to 10 hours on a single charge. The SmartAir has a split-system design, which means the brushless condenser fan is remotely located in a low, central position outside the cab for optimum performance and maximum under-bunk storage capacity.

SmartAir is a factory-installed option. It fully integrates into the existing HVAC system and uses existing ducting for what Peterbilt says amounts to superior fit, finish and quality.