Espar Heater Systems, a member of the Eberspächer Group, has introduced three new products, including the Hybernator on-frame coolant heater, the Hybernator in-frame system and a brand new portable, window-mounted cab-heating unit called Baire Necessity. The fuel-operated heater systems are designed to maximize effectiveness, minimize complexity and provide optimum value, according to Jeff McCord, national accounts manager for Espar. Attendees at the Mid-America Trucking Show had a chance to see the new products first-hand last week.
The Hybernator systems make use of a dedicated 12-volt or 24-volt dry cell, AGM battery system and diesel (or kerosene) as an onboard fuel. Both the new Hybernator on- and in-frame systems provide engine-off heat to the cab. The engine and the fuel system use the CARB-approved Hydronic 5 coolant heater, which delivers 8,200 BTU/hr to 17,000 BTU/hr on small amounts of fuel –0.08 to 0.16 gallons per hour.
The in-frame Hybernator system is based on the on-frame unit. It enables users who prefer to mount the system between the frame rails instead of on the outside of the rails to do so without the drilling of frame components, thank to a new “e-box” mounting system.
For customers who want engine-off heat for an hour or two (while waiting to load or unload, for instance) Espar also introduced the portable Baire Necessity system. The window-mounted unit is designed to allow drivers to stay warm in virtually any truck without having to install a permanent no-idle heating system. Instead, a lightweight Espar Airtronic D2 heater mounts into a special window fixture on the driver- or passenger-side of the cab in just minutes and draws power from the cigarette lighter to deliver 2,900 BTU/hr to 7,500 BTU/hr of heat, said Espar.
Pricing for the new Hybernator heater systems and the Baire Necessity system has not been announced. According to McCord, truckstops and other facilities may offer the Baire Necessity for rent.
