Yesterday Daimler Trucks North America LLC announced that they will be offering an optional solar panel system on new model Freightliner Cascadias.
The eNow eCharge solar system will be available on new Freightliner Cascadia Class 8, raised roof sleeper trucks as a pre-delivery installation option.
Solar Panels Promise To Cut Down On Fuel Costs, Increase Battery Life
According to a release from Daimler, the solar panel is 0.125″ thick and integrates into the contours of the truck’s roof to maintain the vehicle’s aerodynamic profile. The system is designed to help drivers cut down on idle time and save on fuel costs as solar power provides ongoing power to the truck’s battery.
Daimler says that fleets that have already implemented the eNow solar system have seen the following results:
- Increased daily run time for auxiliary equipment, such as in-cab HVAC
- Increased overall battery life from 6 months to 3 years
- Reduced fuel consumption by 3 gallons per day from reduced engine idling
- Decreased maintenance cost due to reduction in engine idling
The solar panel system can be ordered at Freightliner dealerships and installed at Custom Truck Service centers.
Click here to learn more about the eNow system.