Maxwell Technologies has developed an engine start module incorporating its patented ultracapacitor technology in consultation with heavy truck manufacturers and fleet operators. This 12 V module ensures reliable engine starting for commercial trucks and other heavy vehicles.

Available in original equipment or as an easy-to-install retrofits solution, it prevents vehicle starting problems in cold weather or when batteries are drained by repetitive starting or climate control and other driver comfort functions. Key features and benefits of the new product include:

Reliable starting for diesel engines up to 15 liters at temperatures down to -40 degrees C;
Maintenance-free operation and “life of the vehicle” reliability;
Industry standard Group 31 battery form factor for easy integration with battery systems;
Built-in quick charging system (15 minutes or less);
Extended battery life, full compatibility with existing battery systems;
Green technology with no heavy metals or toxic substances requiring special recycling.

This ultracapacitor-based engine start module is in a compact, lightweight, industry-standard form factor. It provides an onboard jump-start capability that will virtually eliminate starting failures in low temperature conditions or when hotel loads drain a truck’s batteries.

Unlike batteries, which produce and store energy by means of a chemical reaction, Maxwell ultracapacitor products store energy in an electric field. This electrostatic energy storage mechanism enables ultracapacitors to charge and discharge in as little as fractions of a second, perform normally over a broad temperature range (-40° to +65° C), operate reliably through one million or more charge/discharge cycles and resist shock, vibration and overcharging. Cells range in capacitance from 5 to 3,000 F and multi-cell modules ranging from 16 to 125 V.

 

Maxwell Technologies, Inc.
www.maxwell.com