"With the deployment of the selected idle reduction technologies (APU's, battery powered/thermal storage air conditioning), main engine idling comprised from 5 to 22 percent of total engine operating time, representing a reduction in idling of 42 to 78 percent from baseline conditions...."

ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 25 /PRNewswire-USNewswire

-- The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) today released the results of a demonstration project involving four mobile idle reduction solutions. The research was sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to collect and quantify actual operational data for trucks using selected idle reduction technologies. Idle reduction technologies tested by the participating fleets included auxiliary power units, battery-powered air conditioning systems and thermal storage air conditioning systems.
With the deployment of the selected idle reduction technologies, main engine idling comprised from 5 to 22 percent of total engine operating time, representing a reduction in idling of 42 to 78 percent from baseline conditions. Reductions in the emissions of oxides of nitrogen, particulate matter and carbon dioxide were also identified. Payback periods were generally longer than anticipated.
In addition to operational data, carriers also provided recommendations for integrating commercially-available idle reduction solutions into the truck manufacturing process. Several features were identified as potential areas of improvement, including cab insulation, air flow, connection and components, engine coordination and system management.
"This research captures some of the real-world challenges motor carriers face when deploying idle reduction technologies. It highlights the benefits provided by the various systems yet identifies many of the uncertainties or areas where improvements could be made," said Frank Molodecki, Vice President of Safety and Revenue Equipment for Diversified Transfer and Storage, one of the participating fleets.

ATRI is the trucking industry's 501(c)(3) not-for-profit research organization. It is engaged in critical research relating to freight transportation's essential role in maintaining a safe, secure and efficient transportation system.

Click here to download a 1 page PDF Summary of the ATRI report on Mobile Idle Reduction Solutions.

Click here to request a full copy of the ATRI report on Mobile Idle Reduction Solutions.