Fleet Management News & Business Info | Commercial Carrier Journal
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/319866
COMMERCIAL CARRIER JOURNAL | JUNE 2014 31 the unit's electric architecture to be streamlined compared to conventional belt-driven mechanical systems and semi-electric systems, Kiefer says. Eliminating mechanical parts such as belts, fan shafts, pulleys, clutches and vibrasorbers that require service and periodic replacement reduces service requirements and costs. "Many mechanical parts that are subject to wear and tear are simply not re- quired," he says. "In short, if it's not there, it can't break." Fuel eye-opener Perhaps the real eye-opener for fleets is the fuel savings these units offer. Kiefer says hybrid units are up to 26 percent more fuel-efficient than conventional sys- tems while delivering even higher cooling capacities using less power. "This results in 5 to 30 percent more Btus of cooling per gallon of fuel," he says. "With electric-standby capability, drivers can tap into electric power supplies to run the system when parked for loading and unloading, or rest breaks at truck stops equipped with power receptacles." The lower cost of electricity versus diesel fuel means operating costs can be reduced by up to 70 percent compared to diesel operations, Kiefer says. And when operating on standby, engine run-time hours are reduced, helping to further extend service intervals and reduce main- tenance costs. From a driver perspective, there is no significant difference in operation of Carrier's hybrid Vector units compared to conventional belt-driven units, Kiefer says. Fleets wishing to take advantage of electric standby should add the needed electric infrastructure in their distribution centers, including power receptacles at loading docks and parking areas. Maintenance adjustments to service hybrid reefers also have been minimal. "Technicians need to learn how to work with the electric facets of the system," Keifer says. "But interestingly, since the hybrid Vector units eliminate many tradi- tional components that require adjusting and frequent replacement, the units can actually be easier to service than mechan- ical systems." For straight trucks, Thermo King's T-Series TRUs offer stationary or optional over-the-road Hybrid Smart- Power electric power, as well as the company's Whisper technology for quieter operation. Thermo King's TSR-2 controller features LED technology and either a reciprocating or scroll compres- sor with updated technology designed for improved reliability, higher capacity and greater fuel efficiency. Text INFO to 205-289-3554 or visit www.ccjdigital.com/info Three things you can absolutely count on: 1. The sun coming up tomorrow 2. A deer playing chicken with you on the turnpike 3. ULSD being a royal pain in your system all year long FREE! Howes Camo Cooler when you purchase 3 bottles of Howes Meaner Power Kleaner Visit www.howeslube.com or call 1-800 GET HOWES Offer ends: 9/30/14, available while supplies last. About Item #3? Howes can help. When the weather gets hot, Meaner Power Kleaner actively fights the loss of lubricity and excess wear responsible for premature part failure. To beat back the worst that ULSD can throw at you, count on Meaner Power Kleaner. More power with less emissions Cleans tanks, lines – the whole fuel system Minimum 5% improvement in fuel economy – Guaranteed Enhanced lubricity for less wear Particulate filter friendly and warranty safe Removes water harmlessly 2...!'.*$,'% Professional Grade Performance Since 1920