New Truck Stop Electrification Station Maps Help Truckers Reduce Idling

[phantom power]

Idle reduction systems hold great promise for the approximately 500,000 long-haul trucks with sleeper cabs currently operating in the United States. Estimates show idle reduction technologies could reduce diesel fuel use by about 800 million gallons annually, with a potential savings to the trucking industry of $2 billion each year. In addition, idle reduction strategies can reduce NOX emissions by approximately 150,000 tonnes per year and particulate matter emissions by up to 3,000 tonnes per year.

By reducing the amount of time that trucks idle, typically 6 hours per night, drivers can significantly reduce engine wear and associated maintenance costs. Routine maintenance can be performed less often and trucks can travel farther before needing an engine overhaul.

(...)

Truck stop electrification allows truckers to "plug in" their long-haul tractor-trailers so they can operate the heater, air-conditioner and run electrical appliances such as refrigerators or televisions when they are resting during their federally required rest periods. Options for truck stop electrification include stand-alone systems that are located at truck stops, and combined systems that require both on-board and off-board equipment.

(...)

There are currently fewer than 50 TSE stations in eleven states—Alabama, Arkansas, California, Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas—with plans for many more new facilities to open in the near future.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/04/060424180213.htm

[Tandalayo_Scheisskopf]

1. How many trucks...

Are fitted with electric fuel tank heaters for the winter? And block heaters as well?

[Warpy]

2. There aren't enough rest stops as it is

and anyone who's driven along the Interstates, especially west of the Mississippi, knows that every single on/off ramp is lined with trucks with truckers bedded down between about 10 PM and 5 AM. The exceptions are the pairs (married and otherwise) who relieve each other.

These electrification spots would be a great idea, but I don't see how they could possibly service even a tenth of the trucks on the road.