DAVENPORT, Iowa – Modern luxury motor coaches have evolved into rolling homes and offices. Onboard amenities like induction cooktops, refrigerators, entertainment systems, satellite internet, multiple TVs, office equipment, lighting and security systems create an upscale environment. Yet, many standard factory alternators are designed primarily to support the chassis and basic vehicle accessories, not the substantial auxiliary loads created by these comforts of home.
For a luxury premium Class A motor coach, adding a high-output alternator like American Power Systems, Inc.’s new heavy-duty Ultra Performance at Idle (UPI) alternator series is not simply a charging upgrade. It becomes a mobile power generation system that enables faster battery charging, supports large electrical loads, reduces generator use, enhances off-grid capability, and improves overall coach reliability, according to a company release.
“This new series is an expansion of our product capabilities,” explained APS President & CEO Amy Lank. “It gives our customers a choice in how to supply maximum power depending on their vehicle needs. They’ve asked for more power, and we’ve heard them loud and clear.”
New J180 and Pad Mount UPI Options Expand Installation Flexibility
Now expanded to include J180 and pad heavy-duty mounting styles, APS’ UPI high-output alternator series provides more output across the board at both lower and upper RPM. In addition, the increased power output at lower RPM means faster charging capability at lower speeds, including at idle. Plus, the lighter weight and smaller dimensions of the new UPI series also allow for multiple alternators in many configurations.
How UPI High-Output Alternators Support Modern Motorcoach Power Demands
Support for large house battery banks: APS’ UPI high-output alternator options are especially valuable for luxury motorcoaches because they help support the large house battery banks, inverter/chargers and energy management systems that power today’s residential-style coach amenities. By delivering substantially more charging current than many standard factory alternators, the system helps batteries recover faster while driving, giving owners more usable battery capacity and reducing the time needed to recharge after overnight use or extended off-grid operation.
Powering high electrical loads while driving: The expanded UPI line also helps power high electrical loads while the vehicle is in motion. Luxury coaches commonly rely on refrigerators, air conditioning, entertainment systems, satellite internet, office equipment, induction cooking, lighting, security systems and other onboard electronics that can operate simultaneously. A high-output alternator helps maintain stable voltage and reliable system performance when these loads exceed the capacity of a standard alternator.
Reduced generator runtime: For motorcoach owners who want to reduce generator runtime, the UPI alternator can provide significant charging power to the house batteries while the coach is underway. This can extend inverter operation, reduce generator hours, lower fuel consumption and decrease maintenance needs, contributing to a quieter and more efficient travel experience.
Better performance with lithium upgrades & off-grid capability: The new J180 and pad mount UPI options are also well suited for lithium battery upgrades, which can accept charge faster than traditional battery technologies. In these applications, a properly engineered high-output alternator system can help eliminate charging bottlenecks, improve battery recovery and increase energy independence during long-distance travel, extended road use and time spent away from shore power.
Availability and Configuration Options
All APS UPI high output alternators are available in 12-, 24-, and 48-volt options, ranging from 165 to 390 amps.
To view Ultra Performance at Idle alternator output curves, visit their website.
For more information contact American Power Systems, Inc.
