A3 Series APU: Premium Dual-Function Battery System

Overview

The A3 Series is our premium electric APU system, featuring advanced G31 batteries with integrated start-stop capability. These aren't just APU batteries - they can also start your truck's main engine with 2,400A cranking power. One battery system serves two critical functions.

Key Features

Dual-Function G31 Start-Stop Batteries:

• 100Ah capacity each for APU operation
• 2,400A cranking power for engine starting
• Replaces both your APU batteries AND your truck's starting batteries
• Eliminates the need for separate battery systems

Premium Air Conditioner:

• A31 Model: 10,000 BTU cooling capacity
• Optimized for balanced power consumption
• Professional-grade components

Scalable Configuration:

• 4-8 batteries depending on runtime needs
• Same modular flexibility as A2 Series
• 4-10+ hours runtime depending on battery count

What is Start-Stop Capability?

Traditional truck electrical systems have separate batteries for different functions:

• Starting batteries: High cranking amps, but drain quickly under load
• House/APU batteries: Deep-cycle design for sustained power, but can't start engines

A3 Series batteries do both:

• Deep-cycle capability for running APU loads 8-10 hours
• 2,400A cranking power to start diesel engines reliably
• Advanced Battery Management System (BMS) protects cells during cranking

How Start-Stop Works

Normal APU Operation:

• Batteries power air conditioner during rest periods
• Deep-cycle mode provides steady 12.8V power
• 4-10+ hours of runtime depending on battery count

Engine Starting:

• When you turn the ignition key, batteries detect starting demand
• BMS instantly switches to high-current mode
• Delivers 2,400A cranking power to starter motor
• Smoothly returns to APU mode after engine starts

Cold Weather Starting:

• LiFePO4 batteries perform better than lead-acid in cold temperatures
• Built-in low-temperature protection
• Reliable starts down to -40°F (-40°C)
• Optional battery heater for extreme cold climates

A31 Air Conditioner (10,000 BTU)

Optimized For:

• Standard to large sleeper cabs
• All-around climate performance
• Balanced power consumption with start-stop batteries

Power Consumption:

• Approximately 50-90Ah per hour at maximum cooling
• Efficient compressor designed for battery operation

Cooling Coverage:

• Efficiently cools 80-120 cubic feet
• Maintains comfort in most summer conditions

Battery Configuration Guide

4-Battery Configuration (400Ah Total)

APU Runtime: 5-7 hours

Starting Power: 9,600A total cranking (4 × 2,400A)

Best For:

• Regional routes with shorter rest periods
• Supplemental APU use (not every night)
• Budget entry with start-stop capability
• Smaller engines (under 10L displacement)

6-Battery Configuration (600Ah Total)

APU Runtime: 8-12 hours

Starting Power: 14,400A total cranking (6 × 2,400A)

Best For:

• Full 10-hour rest period coverage
• Standard long-haul operations
• Most popular configuration
• Medium to large diesel engines
• Balanced cost and performance

8-Battery Configuration (800Ah Total)

APU Runtime: 12-16 hours

Starting Power: 19,200A total cranking (8 × 2,400A)

Best For:

• Extended runtime needs
• Hot climate operations
• Running additional loads
• Maximum reliability
• Large engines or cold climate operations

Advantages Over Traditional Battery Systems

System Consolidation

Traditional Setup:

• 2-4 starting batteries (200-400 lbs)
• 4-6 APU batteries (300-500 lbs)
• Total: 500-900 lbs of batteries
• Two separate charging systems
• Two sets of cables and connections

A3 Series Setup:

• 4-8 start-stop batteries (120-240 lbs)
• One integrated system
• Weight savings: 380-660 lbs
• Single charging system
• Simplified electrical design

Real-World Benefits

Weight Savings:

• More payload capacity
• Better fuel economy
• Less wear on suspension

Simplified Maintenance:

• One battery system to monitor
• Fewer connections to check
• Single battery type to stock

Improved Reliability:

• No separate starting battery to fail
• Always have APU backup power for starting
• Redundant starting capacity

Installation Advantages

Flexible Battery Placement:

• Can mount batteries in existing battery boxes
• G31 standard size fits most locations
• Some batteries near engine, others in sleeper
• Distribute weight for optimal balance

Wiring Simplification:

• One set of batteries serves both functions
• Fewer cable runs required
• Reduced electrical complexity
• Professional wiring harness included

No Roof Damage:

• Same backpack-style AC unit as other series
• Mounts on rear sleeper wall
• Easy installation and removal

Who Should Choose A3 Series?

Owner-Operators Who Want Premium Features:

• Maximum functionality from one battery system
• Eliminate separate starting and house batteries
• Weight savings for payload optimization
• Future-proof technology

Cold Climate Operators:

• Superior cold-weather starting vs. lead-acid
• Battery heating options available
• Reliable starts in extreme temperatures
• No cranking amp loss in cold

Fleet Operators Seeking Simplification:

• Standardize on one battery type
• Reduce inventory complexity
• Simplified training for drivers
• Lower total cost of ownership

Operators Replacing Multiple Battery Systems:

• Old starting batteries due for replacement
• Old APU batteries due for replacement
• Replace both with one A3 system
• Immediate ROI from eliminating redundant batteries

Fuel Efficiency Benefits

Direct Fuel Savings:

• Zero idling during rest periods (same as A1/A2)
• $30-50 per night saved vs. idling

Indirect Fuel Savings:

• 400-700 lbs weight reduction vs. traditional batteries
• Estimated 0.1-0.3 MPG improvement from weight savings
• Annual fuel savings: $500-1,500 depending on miles driven

Total Annual Savings:

• Idle reduction: $7,000-12,000
• Weight reduction fuel savings: $500-1,500
• Battery replacement cost avoidance: $500-1,000
• Total: $8,000-14,500 per year

Maintenance & Reliability

Battery Maintenance:

• Zero maintenance required
• Advanced BMS monitors each battery
• Self-balancing cells
• Temperature-controlled operation

Expected Lifespan:

• APU cycles: 3,000+ full cycles (8-10 years)
• Starting cycles: 50,000+ starts
• Typical usage: 8-12 years lifespan

Technical Specifications Summary

Premium Features Summary

✓ Dual-function batteries (APU + engine starting)
✓ 2,400A cranking power per battery
✓ 400-700 lbs weight savings vs. traditional setup
✓ Simplified electrical system (one battery system)
✓ Superior cold-weather performance
✓ Modular scalability (4-8 batteries)
✓ 8-12 year lifespan (typical use)
✓ Professional-grade components

Configuration Recommendations

For Standard Long-Haul Operation:

• 6 * G31 start-stop batteries (600Ah)
• A31 air conditioner (10,000 BTU)
• Runtime: 8-12 hours APU + full starting power
• Best all-around configuration

For Maximum Capacity & Reliability:

• 8 * G31 start-stop batteries (800Ah)
• A31 air conditioner (10,000 BTU)
• Runtime: 12-16 hours APU + exceptional starting power
• Premium choice for demanding operations

For Budget-Conscious Premium Option:

• 4 * G31 start-stop batteries (400Ah)
• A31 air conditioner (10,000 BTU)
• Runtime: 5-7 hours APU + adequate starting power
• Entry point to start-stop technology

Cost-Benefit Analysis

A3 Series vs. Traditional Battery Setup:

Traditional Batteries:

• Starting batteries: $800-1,200
• APU batteries: $1,200-2,000
• Total: $2,000-3,200
• Lifespan: 3-5 years
• Weight: 500-900 lbs

A3 Series (6-battery system):

• 6 * start-stop batteries: Contact us
• One purchase replaces both systems
• Lifespan: 8-12 years
• Weight: 180 lbs
• Payback: 12-24 months from fuel savings alone

Interested in the A3 Series premium system? Contact our technical experts to discuss how start-stop batteries can simplify your truck's electrical system while improving performance.