Utility Trailer, Cargobull North America Unveil New Liftgate Battery Charger

Cargobull Liftgate Battery Charger as an optional feature for Cargobull 625 and 655MT Hybrid TRUs transport refrigeration units.

California, United States- Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company LLC is excited to unveil and announce its new Cargobull Liftgate Battery Charger, now available as an integrated option for the Cargobull 625 and 655MT Hybrid TRUs. This innovative charger will debut at the International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA) 2024 Solutions Conference and is exclusively offered on Utility’s 3000R refrigerated trailers equipped with Cargobull’s ultra-low-emission TRUs.

The Cargobull Liftgate Battery Charger ensures trailers' liftgate batteries remain fully charged and in optimal condition. It draws 480 volts from the Cargobull 625 or 655MT Hybrid TRU to deliver low-voltage charging at a maximum output of 40 amps or 480 watts.

The new liftgate battery charging system operates independently from the charger for the Cargobull 625 and 655MT Hybrid TRUs’ starting battery. Positioned near the liftgate battery pack, it routes 480 volts through a durable conduit, safeguarding the cable from wear and tear.

Mr. Steve Bennett, Utility Trailer President and COO, said, “During delivery routes requiring a dozen or more operations of the liftgate, keeping batteries fully charged can greatly increase the serviceable life of the liftgate battery, especially if they also provide power to interior and exterior lights. Consistently running batteries down to low levels dramatically reduces their lifespan. For example, from what could be as low as a six-month lifespan, this system can double if not quadruple the battery’s service life.”

Traditionally, truck cabs recharge liftgate batteries, but in practice, drivers often neglect to connect the two-pole connector or lease trucks that lack them. Even when used, the truck alternator’s voltage can drop to as low as 13.5 volts by the time it reaches the liftgate battery pack.

“Many have resorted to expensive workarounds like solar cells, which present their own challenges. While a new liftgate battery isn’t costly, scheduling service calls can be inconvenient for fleet operators,” Bennett noted. “Unlike other manufacturers that place their TRU battery chargers inside the units, the Cargobull Liftgate Battery Charger is strategically located near the liftgate battery pack. This innovative design ensures consistent voltage and allows the solid-state charger to monitor battery temperatures accurately for fast, safe charging.”