As fleet managers seek innovative ways to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact, integrating zero emission solutions into construction work trucks can be a compelling option. Work trucks when at a job site with no grid power may be required to idle to provide the job site’s only source of power. As municipal and state governments roll out anti-idiling laws, work truck fleets need to find alternative ways to power their job site without idling the truck engine.
From replacing their fleet with electric power trucks to installing idle reduction systems or adding an auxiliary power system, here are three options at different budget points, fleets can consider:
1. Replacement with electric truck (80-200k)
One of the most significant steps toward greening a work truck fleet is transitioning from traditional gasoline or diesel vehicles to electric models. Electric pickup trucks, such as the Ford F-150 Lightning or the Tesla Cybertruck, offer zero-emission operation and lower fuel and maintenance costs over the vehicle’s lifespan. However, it is important to note that on top of the chassis, fleets must also consider the adding of specialized equipment and parts needed for work.
Fleet managers will also need to invest in charging infrastructure, including installing charging stations at depots or job sites. The cost of installing Level 2 or DC fast chargers can vary widely based on location and capacity. As electric vehicles are still not as common as combustion vehicles, replacement parts may be costly and may take weeks or months to arrive. Fleets will also need to consider power capacity, operational range and compatibility with climate.
2. Installation of an idle reduction system (25 -50k)
For fleets where it is not feasible to replace their work trucks for varying reasons including budget, climate or other reasons, Idle reduction system or idle mitigation systems allow fleets to go zero emission while on the job site giving fleets the best of both worlds
Idle reduction systems, such as ZeroRPM, minimize engine idling during work truck operations, reducing fuel consumption, emissions, and engine wear. They achieve this by providing an auxiliary power source that can provide power in cabin systems as well as external power tools when the work truck is turned off. The power cells can be charged with grid power, solar or the engine when the car is in motion.
As the price of fuel remains volatile and unpredictable, fleets can be at ease that fuel consumption is only limited to when trucks are on the road. On top of it, wear and tear of truck parts are greatly reduced as the truck does not need to idle when at the job site. The savings from fuel and maintenance recognized may cover the initial upfront investment in as early as two years.
3. Basic Solar and Lithium Setup:
Last but not least, fleets wishing for a much more economical option may have a stand alone auxiliary power system that is not integrated with the truck’s main system with only a simple battery and solar system.
Systems such as Xantrex’s Freedom eGEN consists of solar panels are mounted on the truck’s roof or utility bed, capturing sunlight to charge the lithium battery via the solar charge controller. The lithium battery stores the harvested energy, which can power tools, lighting, and communication devices through the inverter. This setup offers a reliable and eco-friendly power source for on-site operations.
Components:
-UL1973 Lithium Battery
-Inverter charger
-Solar Panels
-Solar Charge Controller
Conclusion:
Depending on the needs of your fleet and your company budget, there are different solutions available for fleets to choose from as they make the conversion to zero emission idle free. Investing in green technologies for work truck fleets may require upfront capital expenditure, but the long-term benefits in terms of cost savings, environmental impact, and operational efficiency make it a worthwhile endeavor for fleet managers.