A2 Series APU: Flexible Modular Battery Configuration
A2 Series uses 3-8 modular G31 batteries (100Ah each) for flexible capacity scaling. Start with minimal investment and expand as needed. Perfect for budget-conscious operators seeking customization.
Overview
The A2 Series is designed for operators who want flexibility and scalability. Instead of one large battery, this system uses 3-8 standard G31 lithium batteries (100Ah each) that you can configure based on your exact needs and budget. Start with a basic setup and add batteries later as needed.
Key Features
Modular G31 Battery System:
- Each battery: 100Ah capacity
- Standard G31 size (fits standard battery boxes)
- Add or remove batteries to adjust runtime
- Replace individual batteries if needed (not the whole pack)
Two Air Conditioner Options:
- A21 Model: 10,000 BTU cooling capacity
- A23 Model: 7,500 BTU cooling capacity
Scalable Runtime:
- 3 batteries (300Ah): 3-5 hours runtime
- 4 batteries (400Ah): 4-7 hours runtime
- 6 batteries (600Ah): 7-10 hours runtime
- 8 batteries (800Ah): 9-12 hours runtime
What is a G31 Battery?
The G31 is a standard battery size classification:
- Dimensions: Approximately 13" L × 6.8" W × 9.4" H
- Weight: About 22 lbs for lithium (vs. 70 lbs for lead-acid)
- Compatibility: Fits in standard truck battery boxes
- Advantage: Direct drop-in replacement for traditional lead-acid G31 batteries
A21 Air Conditioner (10,000 BTU)
Best For:
- Standard sleeper cabs
- Most common configuration
- Balanced cooling and power consumption
Power Consumption:
- Approximately 50-90Ah per hour at maximum cooling
Recommended Battery Configurations:
- 3-4 G31 batteries (300-400Ah): 4-8 hours runtime
- 6-8 G31 batteries (600-800Ah): 7-12 hours runtime
Cooling Coverage:
- Efficiently cools 80-120 cubic feet
- Suitable for most standard sleeper cabs
A23 Air Conditioner (7,500 BTU)
Best For:
- Smaller sleeper cabs
- North-central United States
- Budget-conscious operations
- Drivers wanting maximum battery life per charge
Power Consumption:
- Approximately 40-75 Ah per hour at maximum cooling
- Lower power draw = longer runtime
Recommended Battery Configurations:
- 3-4 G31 batteries (300-400Ah): 4-8 hours runtime
- 6-8 G31 batteries (600-800Ah): 8-13 hours runtime
Cooling Coverage:
- Efficiently cools 60-100 cubic feet
- Adequate for compact sleeper cabs
Battery Configuration Guide
3-Battery Configuration (300Ah Total)
Runtime:
- A23 (7,500 BTU): 4-6 hours
- A21 (10,000 BTU): 3-5 hours
Best For:
- Short-haul regional routes
- Drivers who don't need full 10-hour cooling
- Minimal budget entry point
- Cooler climate zones
Investment: Lowest initial cost
4-Battery Configuration (400Ah Total)
Runtime:
- A23 (7,500 BTU): 5-8 hours
- A21 (10,000 BTU): 4-7 hours
Best For:
- 7-8 hour rest period coverage
- Standard long-haul operations
- Balanced cost and performance
- Most popular configuration
Investment: Mid-range, best value
6-Battery Configuration (600Ah Total)
Runtime:
- A23 (7,500 BTU): 8-12 hours
- A21 (10,000 BTU): 7-11 hours
Best For:
- Extended runtime needs
- Hot climate operations
- Running additional loads (inverter, appliances)
- Much more peace of mind
- Multi-day weekend stays
Investment: More capacity, premium option
8-Battery Configuration (800Ah Total)
Runtime:
- A23 (7,500 BTU): 10-14 hours
- A21 (10,000 BTU): 9-12 hours
Best For:
- Extended runtime needs
- Hot climate operations
- Running additional loads (inverter, appliances)
- Maximum peace of mind
- Multi-day weekend stays
Investment: Highest capacity, premium option
Scalability Advantages
Start Small, Grow Later:
- Begin with 3-4 batteries to minimize upfront cost
- Test the system with your actual usage
- Add batteries 1-2 at a time as budget allows
- No need to replace the entire battery pack
Example Scaling Path:
- Year 1: Start with 4 batteries (400Ah) - covers basic needs
- Year 2: Add 2 more batteries (600Ah) - extended runtime
- Year 3: Add final 2 batteries (800Ah) - maximum capacity
Replacement Flexibility:
- If one battery develops issues, replace only that battery
- Not forced to replace entire expensive pack
- Lower long-term maintenance cost
Installation Advantages
Standard Battery Box Compatibility:
- G31 batteries fit in most truck battery boxes
- Can replace existing lead-acid batteries directly
- No custom battery mounting required
- Easy to relocate or reposition batteries
Split System Design:
- Same backpack-style AC unit as A1 Series
- Mounts on rear sleeper wall (no roof damage)
- Batteries can be mounted in multiple locations
- Flexible installation options
Weight Distribution:
- Distribute batteries across multiple locations
- Better weight balance than single large battery
- Each battery only 22 lbs (vs. 70 lbs lead-acid)
Who Should Choose A2 Series?
Budget-Conscious Operators:
- Start with minimum batteries needed
- Upgrade capacity over time
- Spread investment across seasons
Regional/Short-Haul Drivers:
- May not need full 10-hour runtime every night
- 3-4 battery configuration may be sufficient
- Lower initial investment
Flexibility-Focused Operators:
- Want ability to adjust capacity later
- Prefer modular vs. all-in-one design
- Like having replacement options
Small Fleets:
- Can standardize on G31 batteries
- Share spare batteries across trucks
- Easier inventory management
Maintenance & Reliability
Battery Maintenance:
- Each battery has individual management system
- No maintenance required
- Simple to troubleshoot (test batteries individually)
- Replace only failed battery, not entire pack
Air Conditioner Maintenance:
- Same as A1 Series
- Annual filter cleaning
- Periodic refrigerant check
Technical Specifications Summary
| Specification | A21 (10,000 BTU) | A23 (7,500 BTU) |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling Capacity | 10,000 BTU | 7,500 BTU |
| Battery Type | G31 Lithium (100Ah each) | G31 Lithium (100Ah each) |
| Battery Options | 3-8 batteries | 3-8 batteries |
| Runtime (3 batteries) | 3-5 hours | 4-6 hours |
| Runtime (4 batteries) | 4-7 hours | 5-8 hours |
| Runtime (6 batteries) | 7-11 hours | 8-12 hours |
| Runtime (8 batteries) | 9-12 hours | 10-14 hours |
| Operating Voltage | 12.8V DC | 12.8V DC |
Cost Comparison: A2 vs. A1 Series
A2 Series Advantages:
- Lower entry cost (start with fewer batteries)
- Scalable investment
- Individual battery replacement
- Standard G31 size compatibility
A1 Series Advantages:
- Single integrated battery (simpler)
- Slightly higher energy density
- One less thing to configure
Configuration Recommendations
For Standard Sleeper Cab + Moderate Climate:
- A21 air conditioner (10,000 BTU)
- 4-6 G31 batteries (400-600Ah)
- Runtime: 5-10 hours
- Best value configuration
For Compact Sleeper + Budget Priority:
- A23 air conditioner (7,500 BTU)
- 3-4 G31 batteries (300-400Ah)
- Runtime: 4-8 hours
- Lowest cost option
For Extended Sleeper + Hot Climate:
- A21 air conditioner (10,000 BTU)
- 6-8 G31 batteries (600-800Ah)
- Runtime: 8-14 hours
- Maximum comfort and capacity
Need help determining the right battery quantity for your operation? Our technical experts can calculate your exact power needs based on your truck, climate, and usage patterns.
