New docking stations provide electricity to decrease truck idling

Particularly hot or cold weather can leave truckers with tough decisions about whether or not to idle their big rigs to keep heat or air conditioning going during rest times. This practice may lead to extra energy expenses for fleet management owners, plus harm the environment with additional emissions.

Recently, one eco-friendly company launched a system installed at a truck stop in Tennessee that powers trucks' cabin instruments while leaving the engine off.

This innovative approach to saving energy may change how truckers view engine idling. Docked at 30 parking spots are units for the truck stop electrification (TSE) project. They provide 20 and 30 amp services where truckers can plug in their vehicles to get electricity for their appliances.

An additional feature pumps cool or hot air into cabins so the truck does not need to stay on while drivers are taking a break.

John Schroer says he is pleased with the initiative and looks forward to expanding to new stops in the future.

"TSE allows truckers to save fuel, save money and get better rest," he said.

New docking stations provide electricity to decrease truck idling

Friday, July 22nd, 2011