Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about the IdleX eAPU, from installation and operation to warranty and service. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, our support team is just a message away.
Financial & ROI
How long does it take to get a return on investment (ROI)?
The payback period for the IdleX Platform is typically between 12 and 18 months. This rapid return is driven by the significant, immediate savings on diesel fuel and the complete elimination of APU maintenance costs, which can total $7K–$15K per truck, per year.
Do you offer financing, and how does it impact my fleet’s cash flow?
Yes, we offer financing options designed for fleets. Our goal is to make the transition to IdleX seamless, both operationally and financially. For many fleets, the monthly savings on fuel and maintenance are so significant that they exceed the monthly financing payment. This can create a positive cash-flow impact from day one, allowing you to reduce your net operating expenses immediately, without a large capital outlay.
How does the IdleX system affect my truck’s weight and payload capacity?
Federal law, under the FAST Act, allows for a weight exemption of up to 550 lbs. for trucks equipped with an idling reduction device. Unlike any other APU, our Patent Pending unified power system completely eliminates the 120 to 240 lbs. of lead-acid starter batteries from the truck. Because our system often weighs less than the batteries it replaces, fleets can realize a net cargo capacity gain. This allows you to haul more freight and generate more revenue on every load.
Performance & Reliability
Does this system replace my truck’s starter batteries?
Yes, absolutely. This is the core of our patent-pending innovation. The IdleX Platform is a complete, unified power system. An approach so revolutionary, we have a patent pending on the entire architecture that completely eliminates the need for conventional lead-acid starter batteries. It is the first and only technology designed to replace both the starter battery bank and the auxiliary APU with a single, intelligent module, which reduces weight, maintenance, and points of failure.
How long will the IdleX system actually run my HVAC?
The IdleX Platform is designed for true all-night performance, even in real-world hot conditions from Miami, Florida to Phoenix, Arizona. Unlike legacy electric APUs that can fade to just 2-3 hours of runtime at 90°F , our 48V solid-state system delivers the power needed for a full mandated rest period without requiring an engine auto-start.
How does the system provide heat on cool nights?
The IdleX Platform’s primary heating source is a high-efficiency electric heat pump. It is the perfect solution for most cool nights, providing quiet, fuel-free warmth using the system’s battery power in temperatures down to approximately 30°F / -1°C.
How does the system perform in extreme cold weather?
For the absolute coldest climates, the IdleX Platform offers an optional, integrated 2kW diesel-fired heater. This powerful unit automatically takes over when needed to provide abundant warmth for the sleeper cab. This entire process is managed by the intelligent controller, which also executes a “temperature-aware preconditioning” sequence that readies the core components for a reliable start in freezing temperatures.
What makes the IdleX Platform so reliable?
- Zero Mechanical Fail Points: No separate diesel engine, no belts, oil, filters, or pulleys that can fail. This eliminates the most common reasons for APU service calls.
- Solid-State Durability: LFP battery chemistry is rated for over 10,000 cycles, providing a decade of service life, compared to the 18-24 month replacement cycle for typical AGM batteries.
- Intelligent Software: Built for 99% stability and includes predictive monitoring to flag issues before they become a road call.
Driver Safety & Retention
How does the IdleX Platform help with driver retention?
In a competitive market for experienced drivers, quality of life on the road is a major factor in retention. The IdleX Platform provides the quiet, vibration-free, and powerfully climate-controlled environment that allows for true restorative sleep. This significant boost in comfort leads to higher driver satisfaction and is a powerful tool to reduce churn, which can cost fleets over $10,000 per incident.
What is the link between IdleX, driver fatigue, and safety?
Driver fatigue is a critical safety issue and a major financial risk for fleets. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) estimates that 13% of commercial drivers were fatigued at the time of their crash. A primary cause of fatigue is poor quality of sleep from a noisy, vibrating engine or an uncomfortable cab temperature. By providing a completely silent and climate-controlled environment for uninterrupted rest, the IdleX Platform directly combats the root cause of driver fatigue. A well-rested driver is a safer, more alert driver, which leads to fewer accidents and a significant reduction in the financial risk associated with costly litigation and liability claims.
Installation & Service
How long does the installation take?
The IdleX system is designed for a one-day installation. Our national service network can often perform the install during a truck’s regularly scheduled preventive maintenance, meaning zero additional downtime for your fleet.
What does "zero maintenance" really mean?
It means zero scheduled maintenance. Unlike diesel APUs that require constant oil changes, filter replacements, and belt service, the IdleX hardware platform is a sealed system with no mechanical engine to service. This eliminates a significant and unpredictable line item from your maintenance budget.
How does service and support work if there is an issue?
Our support model is proactive, not reactive:
- Remote Diagnostics: The software can identify and report potential issues to your fleet manager, often before the driver is aware.
- Over-the-Air Updates: We can deploy new features and improvements to your entire fleet remotely.
- 5-Year Warranty: The core system is backed by a comprehensive warranty for long-term peace of mind.
Technology & Software
How powerful is the HVAC system?
Our HVAC system is purpose-built for the sleeper cab and delivers an industry-leading 15,000 BTUs of cooling capacity with high airflow (589 CFM). It uses a highly efficient 48V DC scroll brushless compressor that provides superior performance in extreme heat compared to legacy systems.
Can drivers control the system from their phones?
Yes. We offer a mobile app for both iOS and Android that allows drivers to control their climate, check the system’s status and predicted runtime, and even pre-condition the cab before they get in.
How does the fleet portal give us more control?
The fleet management portal provides a real-time, fleet-wide view of system health, usage data, and fault alerts. It also includes a policy engine that allows you to set operational guidelines to ensure efficiency and compliance across all vehicles.
Will IdleX integrate with our current telematics?
Yes, the platform is built to integrate. We have planned software adapters for all leading telematics providers, including Samsara, Geotab, and Motive, to ensure IdleX data flows into the management tools you already use.
Sales
Have a question about pricing, partnerships, or ordering? Contact our sales team for personalized assistance.
Need Support?
Have questions about your IdleX eAPU? Our support team is available to assist with installation, operation, and warranty inquiries.
Contact Us
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