Fleets that do remote jobsite work are grappling with the challenges of decarbonizing their fleets now, in order to meet increasingly stringent idling laws while dealing with the inevitable transition to electric vehicles (EVs). With concerns about jobsite productivity and EV range, fleet operators are seeking solutions that enable them to continue to get the job done in a no-idle or reduced-idle environment. Recognizing the need for innovative mobile power solutions, Vanair has recently launched its groundbreaking EPEQ Electrified Power Equipment line.
Founded in 1972, Vanair has seen a lot of change over the years, but nothing like the rapidly evolving business landscape faced by fleets today, with its unprecedented rate of change. Vanair’s ongoing collaboration with its customer base across various industries, supported by a robust voice-of-the-customer program, enabled the company to anticipate upcoming trends. EPEQ delivers a jobsite power solution that will not only bridge the gap today, making carbon-based vehicles greener in the field, it will continue to serve the needs of fleets even after they transition to EVs.
ENGINEERED WITH THE END IN MIND
Vanair’s Electrified Power Equipment (EPEQ) line is a comprehensive, patent-pending system that offers fleets an end-to-end solution to reduce their carbon footprint and comply with idling mandates now. At the jobsite level, EPEQ lets fleets become true “green fleets” without waiting for EV adoption to mature or for charging infrastructure challenges to be resolved.
The EPEQ product lineup includes a diverse range of fully-electric mobile power solutions designed to make an instant impact on carbon emissions. With the inclusion of the innovative “Smart Controller,” fleets can power down their vehicles on the jobsite while ensuring work productivity and meeting regulatory requirements.
The purpose-designed components of the EPEQ line, such as lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, electric power take-off (ePTO) systems, air compressors, AC power inverters, welders, EV chargers, idle mitigation technology, alternators/regulators, and DC-DC converters, are optimized for battery-powered systems. The advanced ELiMENT LiFePO4 Battery incorporates a unique battery management system that can discharge power while being charged, enhancing overall efficiency.
With its wide range of functionalities, Vanair can tailor the EPEQ system to meet the specific needs of any fleet. Whether fleets require a targeted single-function machine or an ecosystem product grouping kit, Vanair offers a customizable solution to suit various applications across industries like road construction, mining, oil and gas, fire and rescue, and more.
A GAME CHANGER INSIDE AND OUT
The EPEQ system is fully self-contained and can be mounted on internal-combustion-engine vehicles, electric vehicles, or trailers. When installed in a vehicle or enclosed body, users can experience a substantial reduction in noise levels (up to 60%) and eliminate exhaust emissions from the equation. The removal of internal-combustion engines also results in lower maintenance requirements and immediate fuel savings.
Early adopters of the EPEQ system have lauded its functionality, citing quiet operation, improved air quality, and enhanced equipment performance. The system has opened new possibilities for fleets that previously faced challenges related to fumes, noise, and workspace limitations. Fleets are leveraging the EPEQ system to gain a competitive advantage, expand services, and cater to unique applications within their respective industries.
The EPEQ line represents Vanair’s commitment to providing fleets with clean, quiet, and powerful alternatives for a sustainable future. By empowering fleets to decrease their environmental impact now, Vanair is supporting the transition towards greener transportation solutions tomorrow, while ensuring fleets can continue their operations efficiently and compliantly today.
There is no longer any reason that a jobsite can’t be green, or at least greener. The scalability of the EPEQ system allows for the addition of different power equipment, and with the introduction of the EPEQ IDLE MITIGATION (EPEQ IM) kit, fleets can automatically turn off vehicles while still enabling workers to operate the power equipment.
AUTOMATIC RESPONSE
The EPEQ IM system can be customized to turn the vehicle on or off based on fleet-dictated parameters, such as run time or battery state of charge. It utilizes the onboard vehicle battery or Vanair’s EPEQ ELiMENT LiFePO4 auxiliary battery to power various functions, including cab heat and air conditioning, emergency lights, radios, laptops, cameras, and AC electrical equipment.
The Smart Controller module is discreetly placed underneath the dash and communicates through the vehicle’s J1939 CAN bus network or OBD port, making parameter setting and system operation effortless. By automatically turning off the vehicle once specific conditions are met, the EPEQ IM system significantly reduces idling time, also known as “ghost miles,” which cause wear and tear on the vehicle. This reduction in idling time leads to substantial savings in maintenance costs, including fuel consumption reduction, minimized engine hours, and reduced DPF regeneration and cleaning. The EPEQ IM system addresses not only the emission issue but also extends the lifespan of existing chassis.
Vanair also offers telematics capabilities that provide valuable asset usage information to fleet managers. The new telematics package enables precise monitoring of various parameters, including geo positioning, vehicle speed, fuel level, tire pressure, and fault codes. This information empowers fleet managers to make informed decisions about fleet investments, optimize asset utilization, and identify components that can be removed to save space and weight.
READY FOR THE FUTURE
As EV’s take the stage, EPEQ has already solved the “hard to electrify” dilemma raised by many industry pundits. By removing the burden of powering truck-mounted equipment from an EV’s primary battery bank, the EPEQ system enables the use of traditional PTO-driven components, such as air compressors and hydraulic drive packages. This compatibility ensures that workers using electric vehicles in the future can continue operating the same equipment without requiring additional training or adapting to unfamiliar solutions.
CLOSING THOUGHT
With Vanair’s EPEQ systems, work becomes simpler and more productive both in the present and as fleets progress into the future. These electrified power solutions bridge the gap between conventional and electric vehicles, providing fleets with a reliable and efficient path toward sustainable operations. By embracing Vanair’s EPEQ Electrified Power Equipment, fleets can achieve their environmental goals, optimize operational efficiency, and position themselves for a successful transition to electric vehicles.
About the Author:
Dean Strathman, Vanair’s vice president of sales, has been an integral part of the company since 2009, showcasing remarkable career progression through his versatility and excellence in various sales roles. With a profound understanding of the truck body industry and expertise in mobile power solutions, Strathman has earned the trust of both clients and colleagues, positioning himself as a valuable advisor. For more, visit vanair.com.
Modern Contractor Solutions, July 2023
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