Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/417162
of the truck that could interfere with an operator's rest. "When you have a truck start in the middle of the night to charge the batteries, that's going to rock the truck," says Sproull. The configuration also requires about 25 percent less time to fully recharge than competitive no-idle configurations. The SmartAir system fully recharges batteries in four to five hours at an average engine speed of 1150 RPM. The resulting fuel savings is about 70 percent vs. an APU- powered system, according to Sproull. Another point of differentiation from competitive systems is the split-system design. Simply put, the condenser is mounted on the outer sleeper wall and connected to the main unit, contain- ing the evaporator, blower, compressor and air filter, by hoses. The main unit is mounted under the bunk in the sleeper. Compared to a combined unit that would mount all the components under the bunk, the SmartAir system is a space saver as well, and opens up greater space for under-bunk storage. Additionally, the split-system is significantly quieter than a comparable combined unit. New SmartAir Configuration for Model 579 Compact space-saver battery boxes now available for Peterbilt's no-idle SmartAir system on the Model 579 allow for greater spec'ing flexibility with new chassis configurations, Peterbilt recently announced. "The SmartAir system provides customers with unparalleled climate control performance through our exclusive no-idle technology that is fully integrated and factory installed on select Peterbilt models," says Landon Sproull, Peterbilt Chief Engineer. "Offering the space-saver battery box option for our Model 579 minimizes weight and further reduces what was already the industry's smallest footprint for a no-idle cooling system. "Additionally, the space-saver battery box can be mounted to the chassis in a variety of locations allowing for greater spec'ing flexibility, including exhaust configurations with the diesel particulate filter and selec- tive catalytic reduction catalyst in the right-hand, under-cab position." The space-saver battery box is constructed of lightweight aluminum and available with a choice of either an aluminum or composite cover. These auxiliary batteries help the Peterbilt SmartAir system both save fuel and exceed TMC cooling standards. you eliminate completely?'"