SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Announced today, Peterbilt is offering Maxwell Technologies’ ultracapacitor-powered Engine Start Module (ESM) on new Model 579 and 567 trucks as a factory-installed option.

According to Maxwell, the ultracapacitor replaces one traditional battery – reducing weight by up to 60 pounds – and is dedicated to starting the vehicle. This means power is always available to start the vehicle which helps reduce unplanned downtime. It gives fleet owners and drivers peace of mind, assuring engine starts in both extreme cold and hot temperatures.

”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, CEO of Maxwell Technologies, added: “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.”

For more information about Maxwell’s Engine Start Module products, please visit www.maxwell.com/esm.