Indel B has introduced the second-generation Sleeping Well Arctic Plus, a 12-volt DC no-idle air-conditioning system. The first generation Sleeping Well Arctic 2000 with 6150 BTU of cooling power was a hybrid-powered system with integrated 12- to 24-volt converters supplying power to the 24-volt compressors and compressor controls.

The new Arctic Plus is still a three-component system, but it’s a fully 12-volt arrangement with the same 6150-BTU output. Having a “true” 12-volt system has allowed Indel B’s engineers to make more than 30 system improvements, the company says, resulting in better overall system performance and reliability.

The new version sees a dramatic 30% reduction in power consumption, down to only 55 amps/hour at maximum output. That’s because the first generation’s two 12/24-volt converters, a number of relays, and a second condenser cooling fan simply aren’t present in the latest design. Advantages are said to include improved system run time for extended driver comfort while resting, better system reliability, and extended auxiliary battery-pack life.

As well, the overall size of the system’s three components has been reduced. It retains the quiet and compact sleeper cooling unit (the evaporator) but now has a six-speed fan that offers the driver more comfort choices. The compressor box is slightly smaller and redesigned to better fit under the sleeper bed in most trucks. The exterior condenser unit still has a standard stainless-steel mounting bracket, but is 10% smaller and has also been redesigned to fit more easily on the rear external sleeper wall, the maker says.

A new drivers display with diagnostic capability can help the driver in the case of a system failure to ensure easier and faster service if required. In most cases, the most common driver notification ‘E1’ would let the driver know that he needs to recharge the system’s auxiliary battery pack. The driver’s ‘option’ button allows him to lock the SW Arctic Plus unit at a reduced speed (output) allowing for extended system run time for unexpected longer stopovers. There’s also a remote control.

The new Arctic Plus should keep the cab cool for 10 hours even in the warmest climates, says Indel B.