Tridako Energy Systems, which has been making OEM off-highway heating and air-conditioning systems for 35 years, has introduced an auxiliary power unit designed for
class 8 trucks. It’s a self-contained gen-set powered by a small diesel engine, providing 120-volt AC power plus heating and air conditioning inside the cab and sleeper with the main engine shut down. It’s completely isolated from other truck systems.

The PowerCube (Model HC6000) represents a “comprehensive package of proprietary designs” to provide what the company calls “the perfect blend of BTU output and cab-temperature sustainability.” Compared to others, the APU is said to have higher BTU output and fewer moving parts, while eliminating the need for an external condenser unit.

The PowerCube has been lab tested to meet requirements of SAE J-1503 automotive performance standards, Tridako says, with documented results of 24,000 btu/hr cooling and 30,000 btu/hr heating. The Model HC6000 is offered with the choice of either Kubota or Caterpillar 2-cylinder engines that come with a two-year/24,000-mile warranty.

A range of APU accessories and options is being developed.