Volvo Trucks is introducing a new battery system for its FH and FM ranges, which provides sufficient power for all in-cab functions while also reducing the risk of standstill due to discharged batteries.
The new battery system has two separate battery sets – one for starting the engine, and the other for all other in-cab electrical equipment. The starter battery’s only function is to crank the engine and is not affected by power consumption in the rest of the truck. All other functions such as the parking heater, parking cooler, refrigerator, media system and personal equipment including laptops, mobile phones and tablets are powered by separate gel batteries.
These benefits can be seen primarily in long-distance transportation and in really hot or cold climates. Even on cold winter nights, the driver can enjoy a good night’s rest without having to get up and start the engine in order to recharge the batteries.
The new gel batteries offer a far longer service lifetime than conventional lead-acid batteries, as well as more charging cycles. In fact, during tough cycles, the gel batteries will last at least 10-15 times longer.
