A1 Series APU: High-Capacity All-in-One Solution
A1 Series features a single 460-560Ah LiFePO4 battery with 10,000-15,000 BTU cooling. Delivers 8-10 hours runtime for long-haul drivers seeking maximum simplicity and reliable overnight comfort.
Overview
The A1 Series is our flagship electric APU system, designed for drivers who want maximum runtime with minimum complexity. It features a single large-capacity battery (460Ah or 560Ah) paired with powerful air conditioning - no multiple batteries to manage, just simple plug-and-play operation.
Key Features
Single Large Battery Design:
- One integrated 460Ah or 560Ah LiFePO4 battery pack
- No need to connect multiple batteries
- Simplified installation and maintenance
- All battery cells balanced and managed as one unit
Two Air Conditioner Options:
- A11 Model: 10,000 BTU cooling capacity
- A12 Model: 15,000 BTU cooling capacity
Runtime Performance:
- 6-10 hours of continuous air conditioning on a full charge
- Covers a full 10-hour rest period with margin
- Consistent cooling power throughout the night
A11 Air Conditioner (10,000 BTU)
Best For:
- Standard sleeper cabs (36"-48" size)
- Most regions across the U.S.
- Teams of 1-3 drivers
Power Consumption:
- Approximately 50-90Ah per hour at maximum cooling
- 7-9 hours runtime with 460Ah battery
- 8-11 hours runtime with 560Ah battery
Cooling Coverage:
- Efficiently cools 80-120 cubic feet
- Maintains 68-72°F in typical summer conditions
A12 Air Conditioner (15,000 BTU)
Best For:
- Larger extended sleeper cabs
- Most regions across the U.S, with optimized performance for hot climates (Southern & Southwest states)
- More team drivers or extended cab space
Power Consumption:
- Approximately 65-100Ah per hour at maximum cooling
- 6-8 hours runtime with 460Ah battery
- 7-10 hours runtime with 560Ah battery
Cooling Coverage:
- Efficiently cools 120-180 cubic feet
- Maintains comfortable temperatures even in 100°F+ conditions
Battery Capacity Comparison
460Ah Battery Configuration
Pros:
- Lower initial cost
- Lighter weight (still lighter than equivalent lead-acid)
- Adequate for most applications
- 6-8 hours runtime with A11 air conditioner
Recommended For:
- Drivers in moderate climates
- Budget-conscious operations
560Ah Battery Configuration
Pros:
- Extended runtime (10 hours)
- Extra capacity margin for hot nights
- Better for larger air conditioners
- Handles additional loads (inverter, TV, etc.)
Recommended For:
- Hot climate operations
- Drivers who want maximum peace of mind
- Those running additional electronics overnight
Installation Advantages
The A1 Series uses a backpack-style split design:
Installation Process:
- Drill mounting holes in the rear wall of the sleeper cab
- Mount the air conditioner unit on the exterior
- Route refrigerant lines and wiring through the wall
- Mount battery inside the sleeper or under the bunk; custom brackets are also available for external mounting
- Connect electrical wiring
No Roof Damage:
- Unlike rooftop units, no permanent roof modifications required
- No risk of roof leaks
- Easier to install and remove
- Better for resale value
Installation Time:
- Typically 3-5 hours for professional installation
- DIY-friendly for mechanically inclined operators
Best Use Cases
Long-Haul Operations:
- Coast-to-coast routes with nightly sleeper use
- Drivers who need reliable 10-hour break cooling
- Operations with consistent daily driving (battery recharge)
Solo Owner-Operators:
- Simple operation - one battery to manage
- Predictable runtime every night
- Quick ROI through fuel savings
Hot Climate Routes:
- Southern states, Southwest, summer operations
- Pair with 560Ah battery for extra capacity
- A12 model recommended for extreme heat
Maintenance & Reliability
Battery Maintenance:
- No maintenance required
- Built-in battery management system
- Self-balancing cells
- Temperature-controlled charging
Air Conditioner Maintenance:
- Annual filter cleaning (simple DIY)
- Check refrigerant levels every 2-3 years
- Inspect electrical connections annually
Expected Lifespan:
- Battery: 3,000+ cycles (8-10 years typical)
- Air conditioner: 8-10 years with basic maintenance
Technical Specifications Summary
| Specification | A11 | A12 |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling Capacity | 10,000 BTU | 15,000 BTU |
| Battery Options | 460Ah or 560Ah | 460Ah or 560Ah |
| Runtime (460Ah) | 7-9 hours | 6-8 hours |
| Runtime (560Ah) | 8-11 hours | 7-10 hours |
| Operating Voltage | 12.8V DC | 12.8V DC |
| Recommended Cab Size | 80-120 cu ft | 120-180 cu ft |
Cost Comparison vs. Idling
Daily Idling Cost (10 hours at 0.8 gal/hr):
- 8 gallons diesel × $3.50/gallon = $28 per night
- Annual cost (250 nights): $7,000
A1 Series Electric APU:
- Zero fuel cost during rest periods
- Payback period: Approximately 14-18 months
- Annual savings: $7,000+
Ordering Guidance
Choose A1 + 460Ah if:
- Standard cab size
- Moderate climate operations
- Budget is a priority
- Consistent daily charging available
Choose A1 + 560Ah if:
- Extended sleeper or large cab
- Hot climate operations
- Maximum runtime desired
- Running additional electronics
Choose A11 (10,000 BTU) if:
- Standard sleeper cab
- Solo driver
- Moderate temperatures
Choose A12 (15,000 BTU) if:
- Large extended sleeper
- Hot climate zones
- Team drivers or more space to cool
Ready to configure your A1 Series APU? Contact our technical team for personalized recommendations based on your specific truck and operation.
