When it comes to municipality field vehicles and roadside support vehicles, many fleet managers make the mistake of holding a number of outdated facts or misconceptions towards auxiliary power and lithium batteries. In this article, we will debunk a number of them to help fleet managers not make the mistake of making a fleet decision based on outdated or false information.
Misconception: Lithium batteries unsuitable for cold climates. They cannot charge or discharge when it gets to freezing temperature.
Answer: This is a common misconception, but modern lithium batteries, especially Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) variants, are designed to handle cold climates effectively. It’s true that extreme cold can reduce battery performance, as chemical reactions inside the battery slow down. However, many lithium battery systems used in municipality field vehicles include integrated thermal management features, such as heaters or insulation, that ensure consistent performance in sub-zero temperatures.
For example, fleets in northern regions, like Canada and the northern United States, have successfully implemented lithium battery systems by selecting models with cold-weather optimization. To ensure reliable operation, fleet managers should confirm that the battery includes:
- Built-in heating elements to maintain optimal internal temperatures.
- Temperature management software to prevent charging below safe temperature thresholds.
When paired with an inverter system, these batteries perform well even when your region experience a snap cold spell during the winter, providing a more sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional generators.
Misconception 2: Won’t Lithium-ion batteries spontaneously combust?
Answer: Safety concerns about lithium batteries are understandable but often exaggerated. Unlike older lithium-ion chemistries, LiFePO4 batteries as auxiliary power for work trucks are inherently more stable. They are specifically designed with a focus on safety, making them ideal for demanding applications like municipality field vehicles. These batteries feature:
- Thermal stability: LiFePO4 chemistry resists overheating, reducing the risk of thermal runaway.
- Built-in safety measures: Most LiFePO4 systems include battery management systems (BMS) that monitor and regulate temperature, voltage, and current.
- Non-toxic materials: LiFePO4 batteries do not contain cobalt, which is associated with higher flammability in some other lithium-ion chemistries.
- UL Certifications: The more recent generation of lithium batteries are tested with some of the strictest tests out there that includes puncture and heat tests. Batteries from Xantrex with a UL certification are known to be able to main a high level of safety and not combust.
These safety features make LiFePO4 batteries an excellent choice for powering tools and equipment in field vehicles. Furthermore, adherence to strict international safety standards ensures these systems are reliable and safe to operate.
Misconception 3: Isn’t idling cheaper than using an inverter with lithium batteries?
Answer: At first glance, idling might appear cheaper because it doesn’t require new equipment and the fuel used is not a lot as the vehicle is not moving anywhere. However, this is a short-term perspective that ignores the long-term costs and regulatory implications. Idling a vehicle’s engine to power tools or auxiliary equipment results in:
- High fuel consumption: Idling can burn up to 1 gallon of fuel per hour, significantly increasing operating costs over time.
- Increased maintenance costs: Prolonged idling accelerates engine wear, shortening its lifespan and leading to costly repairs.
- Regulatory penalties: Many regions have anti-idling laws, and failing to comply can result in hefty fines.
By contrast, an inverter paired with a lithium battery system installed on a work truck provides a cost-effective and sustainable alternative. These systems:
- Require no fuel for operation, significantly reducing fuel costs.
- Operate silently, improving worker conditions and reducing noise pollution.
- Help municipalities meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals by lowering emissions.
When comparing total cost of ownership (TCO), lithium battery systems with inverters emerge as the more economical choice.
Misconception 4: Using onboard power will drain the battery and prevent engine startup if the battery is drained too far.
Answer: This concern arises from confusion about how auxiliary power systems are designed. High-quality inverters and lithium battery setups for field vehicles include safeguards to prevent this issue:
- Dedicated auxiliary batteries: These systems use a separate battery pack to power tools and equipment, leaving the starter battery untouched.
- Low-voltage disconnect (LVD) devices: LVD systems cut off power to auxiliary loads if the battery’s voltage drops too low, ensuring there’s always enough charge to start the vehicle.
- Real-time monitoring: Advanced systems provide fleet operators with status updates, allowing them to track battery health and usage.
By implementing these measures, fleets can confidently use onboard power without risking vehicle reliability.
Misconception 5: Auxiliary power is only relevant for states with idle-reduction, generator ban laws and ESG mandates.
Answer: While idle-reduction laws and ESG goals are important drivers, auxiliary power systems offer benefits that extend beyond compliance. These systems improve operational efficiency and reduce costs for municipalities and utility companies, regardless of location. Benefits include:
- Fuel savings: Even in states without anti-idling laws, reducing engine idling significantly lowers fuel consumption.
- Enhanced worker productivity: Reliable auxiliary power ensures that tools and equipment operate without interruption, improving job-site efficiency.
- Reduced wear and tear: By relying on dedicated auxiliary systems, the main engine experiences less strain, lowering maintenance costs.
Municipalities and fleets that adopt inverter-lithium battery systems position themselves as forward-thinking organizations, ready to meet both current and future operational challenges. Take the following diagram of power use for two technicians, the top uses an idle engine or a portable generator while the bottom uses onboard batteries. For the identical work done in both scenarios, note that an idling engine or portable generator results in a lot of energy loss while an inverter and battery setup only uses the power when its needed with minimal energy loss.
Conclusion
Fleet managers for municipalities and field service companies must separate facts from myths when considering inverters and lithium battery systems for their field vehicles. Modern LiFePO4 batteries provide reliable, safe, and efficient power solutions that outperform traditional generators and idling engines. By addressing these misconceptions and investing in the right systems, fleets can lower costs, enhance sustainability, and improve overall operational efficiency.
When planning your next vehicle procurement, consider the long-term benefits of adopting inverter-lithium battery systems to power your municipality field vehicles. Not only will these systems reduce costs and environmental impact, but they also ensure your fleet is equipped to handle the demands of modern field operations.