Maxwell Technologies Inc. and Peterbilt Motors Co. have announced that Peterbilt trucks will now begin offering Maxwell’s ultracapacitor-powered Engine Start Module (ESM) on new Model 579 and 567 trucks as a factory-installed option. Maxwell’s ESM enables fleets to give their drivers the  starting reliability they demand while increasing payload, according to the company. The ultracapacitor replaces one traditional battery – reducing weight by up to 60 lbs. and is dedicated to starting the vehicle. This means power is always available to start the vehicle, reducing unplanned downtime.

Maxwell explained that the ESM gives truck operators assurance their engines will start reliably, especially for operations with multiple starts and stops per day or that use the lift gate or other auxiliary battery-powered equipment while the truck is off. Additionally, the ultracapacitor is not affected by hotel loads – lights, HVAC, television and other in-cab or sleeper-powered devices – which can drain power during extended use.

”Superior uptime and reliability are two advantages our customers expect from Peterbilt, and this new technology is one way to help bring those to even greater levels,” said Anthony Gansle, Peterbilt marketing manager of on-highway products. “Our aerodynamic Model 579 and vocational Model 567 equipped with the Maxwell ESM will provide customers with greater confidence that their vehicles will be ready to move when they need to move.”

Dr. Franz Fink, chief executive officer of Maxwell Technologies, said, “Expanding our Engine Start Module’s availability in North America is an ongoing goal, and our relationship with Peterbilt is the next step in meeting the demands of our customers in the United States and Canada. Now more fleet owners and operators will be able to benefit from the reliable performance of the ESM in providing starting assurance for on-time deliveries and improved uptime.”