Maxwell Technologies is expanding its ultracapacitor-based Engine Start Module (ESM) product line to class 3 through 6 medium-duty trucks that it has been offering previously to class 7 and 8 heavy duty diesel trucks. The new ESM ULTRA 31/900 replaces one storage battery in the truck's tray, and assumes complete responsibility for starting the truck. The ultra capacitor delivers the voltage and current required to start a truck engine more consistently than batteries, eliminating cranking problems that come from weak or discharged batteries (Maxwell says to expect a 40% to 60% reduction in starter crank time). The ESM weighs 16 lbs. (less than one-fourth of the Group 31 lead-acid battery it replaces), delivers reliable starts and allows extensive use of a truck's electrical accessories while the engine is off without fear of the truck not starting. The ESM ULTRA 31/900 retails for about $950.
- 900 cold cranking amperes (CCA), or a three-second crank
- Reliable starting for diesel engines up to 9.9 liters at temperatures -40°F to 149°F
- Stays fully charged even when the truck's lead-acid battery is as low as 9.5V
- Low maintenance operation and life-of-the-vehicle reliability
- Fits into a standard Group 31 battery case for easy integration with batteries
- Built-in quick charging system (15 minutes or less)
- Four-year unlimited warranty
