Apr 1, 2008 12:00 PM

Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Inc. has an all-electric refrigeration unit that eliminates the need for a diesel motor to run the compressor on refrigerated trucks.

The AuraGen generator driven by the truck's engine provides the power required to operate the refrigeration unit. An optional battery back-up system allows the refrigeration system to keep running when the truck's engine is not operating. As soon as the vehicle engine is turned on, the AuraGen automatically recharges the battery pack.

According to Global Refrigeration Systems, manufacturer of the unit, fleets can save approximately $4,000 per truck annually in fuel and maintenance costs based on 2,000 hours of operation. The system is environmentally friendly because no emissions are released to the atmosphere. Using the optional battery pack, this system provides additional cost savings and reduced emissions by not requiring the truck engine to idle while unloading deliveries.

The refrigeration unit weighs 465 pounds and produces an airflow of 1,700 cubic feet/minute. The AuraGen produces 5 to 8.5 kilowatts of power and weighs 112 pounds. In-cab controls permit temperature selection and monitoring of the system. For more information, visit isuzucv.com.