Carrier Transicold introduces new Aspen diesel auxiliary power unit

According to a company statement, the new Aspen diesel auxiliary power unit from Carrier Transicold provides long-haul truck drivers with cab climate control and electrical power during rest periods, while reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions by eliminating truck idling.

"Taking a fresh approach to cab comfort and convenience, we designed the Aspen APU from the inside out for high performance, versatility, durability, reliability, and ease of use," said Carrier Transicold's product manager for alternative power, Ryan Rubly.

The high-output generator at the heart of the Aspen APU provides cab cooling, heating, and electric power, as well as automatic vehicle battery charging and engine preheating, according to the manufacturer.

"We've added an innovative and user-friendly control interface for drivers, as well as new APU configuration options for heating and hotel loads," said Rubly. "Technicians will value our new CabinTech PC software, which enables rapid installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Aspen APU."

The Aspen APU is constructed with marine-grade components and corrosion-resistant alloys for increased strength and durability. Electronics with an IP67 rating protect against sand, grit, and water. Even behind fairings, a lightweight, corrosion-resistant injection-molded housing cover provides simple access to the power plant.

Among the Aspen APU’s key features are:

• All-new programmable driver interface that makes temperature control as effortless as a home thermostat, with an illuminated dial supported by a backlit digital information display
• 12,000 BTU/h of cab cooling
• Greater heating versatility via the standard 8,200 BTU/h electric heater and a new option, the 7,000 BTU/h fuel-fired Carrier cabin heater
• High-grade power from its own generator to provide household quality electricity for appliances, computers, and more

Carrier Transicold offers several models of the Aspen APU, including an integrated system that uses coolant exchange for truck engine preheating, a stand-alone unit that powers the tractor’s block heater for engine heating, and a power-only version for work trucks that need auxiliary power but don’t require cab climate control.

If equipped with an optional adapter, Aspen APUs can be operated using 115-volt shore power when the truck is parked, eliminating the need to run the APU engine for added fuel savings.