Mar 1, 2003 12:00 PM

An overwhelming majority of fleets want truckstop electrification and would be willing to pay for it, according to a recent online survey of fleet managers and owner-operators.

A total of 88% of all those responding said they wanted so-called “shorepower” for the trucking industry, and 86% said they would be willing to pay for electrical service at truckstops.

Shorepower is AC power supplied to mobile users at places such as recreational vehicle parks and marinas. At a truckstop, the driver would run an outdoor extension cord from the electricity source to his truck to power appliances and devices such as an inverter/charger, microwave, or television.

The survey was conducted by industry suppliers Xantrex Technology, Dometic, and Phillips & Temro. Each company offers components to help facilitate shorepower.

According to Brian Lawrence, heavy-duty truck segment manager for Xantrex, the survey shows a strong interest in truckstop electrification. “The comments in this survey show a pent-up demand by people in the industry,” he said. “It's meaningful that people took the time to make comments because they haven't had a chance to voice their concerns about this before.”

A total of 93% of all survey respondents said they wanted shorepower to operate their heating and air-conditioning units. Many said truckstop electrification would reduce idling.

Lawrence said several states already prohibit idling, and it eventually will be outlawed nationwide. Reduced idling also offers an economic benefit, he said. “The Technology and Maintenance Council of the American Trucking Associations as well as the Argonne National Laboratory have published information that shows that reducing idling lowers fuel costs and lengthens engine life. By introducing shorepower to truckstops, we would provide a solution for trucks not to idle,” he said.

Truckstop electrification would also make it easier for drivers, especially the growing number of driving teams, to prepare meals and enjoy entertainment in their rigs.

Lawrence said fleets should tell truckstop operators they want shorepower. He also said the survey results will be shared with politicians and government agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency and departments of Energy and Transportation.