Peterbilt Motors Co. is now offering a compact space-saver battery box on its Model 579 for use with the no-idle SmartAir system.
“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,” said 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.”
Sproull said the battery box can be mounted to the chassis in a variety of locations to create greater spec’ing flexibility.
The space-saver battery box is constructed of lightweight aluminum and available with a choice of either an aluminum or composite cover.
The SmartAir system is available on Model 579s equipped with a 72- or 80-in. sleeper. It has a 7,500 BTU/hour cooling capacity and can operate for up to 10 hours on a single charge. The system is powered by Odyssey absorbed glass mat batteries, which can be housed in the new space-saver box or in previously offered aluminum box options, such as aero-styled or with a non-slip step cover.
The split-system design 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.
As a factory-installed option, SmartAir is fully integrated into the existing sleeper HVAC system and utilizes existing ducting. The system is easy to operate and is controlled through an in-sleeper LCD display.
The space-saver battery boxes can be mounted in two new positions: right-hand, back-of-cab and left-hand, back-of-sleeper. These join the existing position of right-hand under the cab.
