Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company has launched a new innovation in liftgate battery charging technology, partnering with Cargobull to offer the Cargobull Liftgate Battery Charger. This advanced system is available exclusively on Utility’s 3000R refrigerated trailers equipped with Cargobull 625 and 655MT Hybrid Transport Refrigeration Units (TRUs). The new product made its debut at the 2024 International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA) Solutions Conference and is positioned to improve the performance of liftgate batteries across the industry.
Enhancing Battery Performance and Efficiency
One of the key benefits of the Cargobull Liftgate Battery Charger is its ability to keep liftgate batteries in an optimal charge condition. By providing a consistent and efficient charging process, the system is designed to ensure that liftgate batteries remain fully powered throughout delivery routes. The charger takes 480 volts of energy from the Cargobull 625 or 655MT Hybrid TRU and delivers low voltage charging with a maximum output of 40 amps or 480 watts of power, ensuring batteries are charged efficiently and ready for use.
Steve Bennett, President and COO of Utility Trailer, highlighted how important this innovation is for fleet operators. “During delivery routes requiring a dozen or more operations of the liftgate, keeping batteries fully charged can greatly increase the serviceable life of the liftgate battery, especially if they also provide power to interior and exterior lights,” Bennett said. He explained that running liftgate batteries down to low levels significantly reduces their lifespan, with some lasting as little as six months. However, the new charging system could potentially double or even quadruple the lifespan of these batteries.
Addressing Common Charging Challenges
Historically, liftgate batteries have been recharged using power from truck cabs, but this approach has been far from perfect. Often, drivers fail to connect the two-pole connector from the truck to the liftgate battery pack, or they may be using trucks that don’t have the necessary connectors. Even when connected, the voltage from the truck alternator can drop to as low as 13.5 volts by the time it reaches the liftgate battery, which isn’t enough to keep the batteries fully charged.
Some fleets have tried alternative solutions like solar cells to address this issue, but these have introduced new challenges and haven’t consistently solved the problem. Bennett noted that while other manufacturers have developed battery chargers located inside the TRU, placing the Cargobull Liftgate Battery Charger near the liftgate battery pack provides a more efficient solution. This design helps deliver consistent voltage, reduces battery wear, and allows for accurate temperature monitoring to prevent overheating.
Innovation in Charging Technology
One of the standout features of the Cargobull Liftgate Battery Charger is its separation from the system that charges the TRU’s starting battery. Located close to the liftgate battery pack, the charger delivers power through a high-quality conduit that protects the cables from the wear and tear typical of long-term use. This ensures the liftgate battery remains fully charged, even during frequent operations, and reduces the need for costly and inconvenient service calls for battery replacements.
This design marks a significant improvement over traditional charging methods, as it provides a more consistent charge to the batteries while preventing them from being drained too quickly. The charger’s solid-state design also ensures that it can accurately monitor battery temperatures, providing fast charging without risking overheating, which is essential for maintaining battery health over time.
Availability
The Cargobull Liftgate Battery Charger is now available exclusively on Utility 3000R refrigerated trailers equipped with Cargobull 625 and 655MT Hybrid TRUs. The product is available for purchase at Utility Trailer’s sales and service centers across their dealer network, offering fleet operators a reliable solution for keeping liftgate batteries in peak condition.
With the introduction of this innovative battery charger, Utility Trailer and Cargobull aim to set a new standard for liftgate battery performance, helping fleets to reduce downtime and extend the lifespan of their equipment.
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