Midtronics is supplying its Battery Management System (BMS) to Kenworth and Peterbilt, both divisions of Paccar, to support factory-installed Auto-Start options on selected truck models. One Midtronics BMS unit is installed on the tractor batteries and another on the auxiliary batteries. If auto-start is enabled and either BMS indicates that the associated battery pack is low, then the truck – if in a safe state – will automatically start its engine to charge the batteries.
Peterbilt is offering auto-start technology as an option to help keep main and auxiliary batteries charged while running the air conditioning system and other electronic equipment. If the charge falls below a certain level, the system automatically starts the truck and runs the engine until batteries are sufficiently charged. Auto-start is available as a factory-installed, fully integrated option with Model 579s, with or without the SmartAir no-idle system, on either 72" or 80" sleepers.
Kenworth has integrated battery monitoring with engine auto-start capability in a new option available on T680 sleeper trucks, with or without the battery-based Kenworth Idle Management System. Engine auto-start monitors both the starting batteries and the auxiliary batteries. The truck’s main batteries might also be used to power hotel loads through an inverter. When battery state of charge gets to a critical level, the truck’s engine is automatically turned on to begin battery charging.
The battery-powered air conditioner and auto-start are independent options which can complement each other when ordered together.
“The system takes the guesswork out of battery monitoring,” said Kevin Baney, Kenworth chief engineer. “In the past, batteries could be drawn through hotel loads to a level that wouldn’t allow the truck to start. Or, if the truck had a low-voltage disconnect (LVD), it would shut power down to protect battery integrity. But our system proactively and automatically starts the main engine to keep all systems going while recharging the batteries to a steady state. Once at a designated level of charge, the engine again shuts down.”
“Today's electrical systems are more complex and critical to heavy duty vehicle performance than ever,” said A.J. Palmisano, Midtronics business manager, Integrated Solutions. “Midtronics works with leading suppliers to more fully incorporate advanced battery management technology into HD vehicles. Midtronics integrated diagnostic products enable continuous monitoring of a vehicle's entire battery and electrical system while in operation.”
In addition to product and component development, Midtronics also licenses technology to several partners for use in a variety of systems and applications.
