New solar-powered charging systems, from eNow, will be available to all Hercules insulated and dry freight body customers. Each system is configured to support and optimize a vehicle's battery charging profile, according to eNow.

The SunTough Charge System is a new solar powered trickle charge system designed by eNow to keep vehicle batteries fully charged and conditioned while the vehicle is not running. Battery drainage can disrupt schedules, cause maintenance issues, and increase operating costs. The system is ideal for vehicles that sit idle for several days or delivery vehicles that need to power temperature monitoring equipment, eNow said.

The SunLift System is a solar powered liftgate accessory battery charging system designed by eNow to reduce fuel consumption associated with idling, alternator load reduction, and battery life. The system is designed for trucks with a heavy liftgate duty cycle, and that never fully re-charge batteries due to frequent delivery stops, the company said.

Earlier this year eNow announced strategic partnerships with Bergstrom, Inc. and Mitsubishi Fuso of North America. eNow's solar-based auxiliary power systems are designed for medium and heavy-duty trucks, commercial buses, school buses, and military vehicles. eNow, Inc. said the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has approved the use of eNow's solar-powered auxiliary power system on heavy-duty diesel fueled vehicles.