Transtex Unveils Lithium-Ion Electric APU for In-Cab Power
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Transtex has introduced its next-generation electric auxiliary power unit to boost energy efficiency and reliability while providing in-cab comfort for drivers.
This lithium-ion-powered eAPU, , is designed to deliver extended runtimes and reduced emissions for trucking fleets as it supports full hotel loads without engine idling.
The development of this new product is a result of Transtex’s June 2024 acquisition of eAPU supplier DClimate.
“Fleets are under pressure to reduce emissions, comply with anti-idling regulation and attract and retain drivers, all while trying to maximize their [return on investment],” said Transtex President Mathieu Desjardins. “The DClimate Lithium Pro was built with these challenges in mind.”
(TRANSTEX via YouTube)
Transtex launched the new product during a March 9 press conference at American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council’s 2025 Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition. Commercial availability is scheduled for the third quarter.
The DClimate Lithium Pro features a lithium iron phosphate battery pack combined with four starting batteries in a hybrid configuration.
Transtex said the eAPU is designed with a 10-year system life and requires minimal maintenance.
It also offers a 150-pound weight reduction compared with previous-generation APUs to improve fuel economy or increase payload capacity.
Duffy says the DClimate Lithium Pro's hybrid battery configuration optimizes performance while also simplifies retrofitting.Ěý(John Sommers II for Transport Topics)
The DClimate Lithium Pro transfers charge between lithium-ion and starting batteries while supporting wet-cell and absorbent glass mat batteries. This bidirectional charging system prevents costly jump starts and helps ensure that trucks are always ready for the road.
“By leveraging lithium-ion technology, we’ve created a more efficient, reliable and maintenance-friendly solution compared to traditional APU systems,” said Martin Duffy, head of Transtex’s DClimate division. “Its hybrid battery configuration not only optimizes performance but also simplifies retrofitting — making it easier for fleets to install on trucks already in operation.”
Looking ahead, Duffy predicted that general APU adoption in the trucking industry will continue to expand. He also envisions the market shifting away from diesel-powered APUs in favor of electric units.
Duffy said DClimate’s mission is to provide drivers with an experience similar to the continuous availability they get with a diesel-powered APU, while also eliminating the maintenance, reliability and fuel burn issues associated with diesel APUs from a fleet standpoint.
Transtex, a supplier of fuel-saving and emission-reducing technologies for the trucking industry, also offers trailer sideskirts and other aerodynamics systems for commercial vehicles.
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