An APU, or Auxiliary Power Unit, is an essential piece of technology used in semi trucks to power the cab and keep its systems running while the engine is off. It is essentially a mini-generator that produces energy from a variety of sources, including fuel and electric batteries. An APU has several advantages over an engine-powered system, such as improved fuel efficiency, reduced noise levels and fewer emissions.
An APU typically consists of a small generator, air conditioning unit and alternator. The generator converts energy from either fuel or electric batteries into electricity for powering the cab’s systems, such as climate control, electronics and lights. The air conditioning unit helps to regulate the temperature inside the cab while the alternator provides auxiliary power for devices such as cell phones and laptop computers.
The main advantage of an APU over an engine-powered system is improved fuel efficiency. By allowing semi truck drivers to turn off their engines when they are not driving their rigs, they can save up to 30% in fuel costs over traditional engine-powered systems. Additionally, APUs are quieter than traditional engines and generate fewer emissions which helps reduce air pollution.
Another benefit of using an APU is that it eliminates the need for extra parts such as belts and hoses that would otherwise be needed with an engine-powered system. This helps reduce maintenance costs associated with these parts since they don’t need to be replaced as often as with a traditional setup. Additionally, since the system does not have to rely on a combustion engine for power generation it can operate more efficiently than traditional setups when running at lower speeds or in stop-and-go traffic conditions.
Overall, an APU in a semi truck offers several advantages over traditional engine-powered systems including improved fuel efficiency, reduced noise levels and fewer emissions as well as lower maintenance costs due to fewer parts needed for operation. With all these benefits combined it’s easy to see why many truck drivers are now opting for APUs over traditional setups for their rigs.
Conclusion
What Is an APU in a Semi Truck? An APU is an auxiliary power unit designed specifically for semi trucks that provides improved fuel efficiency, lower noise levels and fewer emissions when compared with traditional engine-powered systems. By allowing semi truck drivers to turn off their engines when not driving their rigs they can save money on fuel costs while also reducing air pollution.
