Optronics International has introduced the Co27 DC-DC battery charger, a patent-pending system designed to address trailer battery failures caused by inadequate charging through standard trailer wiring.

Commercial trailer batteries powering electric-over-hydraulic systems, powered landing legs and liftgates often fail early because diode-and-fuse connections through the 7-pin connector limit charging to about 50% to 60% capacity. In cold weather, that reduced state of charge can render lead-acid batteries ineffective.

Installed in the trailer and connected through the existing 7-pin plug, the Co27 activates when it detects 13.2 volts or higher from the towing vehicle’s alternator. Its software-driven algorithm delivers a three-stage charging cycle — bulk, absorption and float — to restore and maintain battery charge. Lithium-iron-phosphate batteries receive an optimized two-stage cycle, with chemistry selected through a wiring configuration during installation.

The system measures circuit resistance between the trailer and towing vehicle and adjusts current draw to protect wiring and fuses, reducing output to as low as 3.5 amps when needed and charging at up to 10 amps when conditions allow. The Co27 also draws zero standby current when the towing vehicle is not running, helping prevent parasitic battery drain.