1.

How long has SUTRAK been involved with electric HVAC systems on vehicles?

Our experience with electric systems goes back to the 1980's when we deployed systems on Light Rail Vehicles (LRV), Automated People Movers (APM), and other special projects. One of the most the most noteworthy projects was our supply to the Disney Monorail system in Orlando.

2.

When did you begin working on the electric bus systems?

See the ACE development timeline: Go To Page

3.

Why are scroll compressors a better alternative to piston compressors?

Scroll design and efficiency are superior to open type piston compressors in virtually every category. One of the most prominent benefits is the ability to operate without a traditional shaft seal; the weakest component in a traditional compressor installation. However, it has many other benefits including operational performance, HP requirement, and its ability to handle liquid slugging.

4.

What advantage does your generator technology have over your competitors?

SUTRAK chose to utilize an air cooled synchronous a.c. output generator which minimizes any potential for maintenance. Liquid cooled versions in the market add an additional maintenance loop, or in the same words translates to "additional maintenance".

5.

How is SUTRAK different from other HVAC suppliers.

Our competitors are multi-billion dollar conglomerates, for which decision making is slow and made with stock price in mind. Their Support Services are more focused in HVAC lines not associated with bus HVAC. As the small player on the block, we are the niche market player who specializes and supports a very specific product line. Although small, we are fast and not bogged down in the corporate culture. Our entire staff is available to our customers, not just to someone 3-4 tiers and pay grades away.

6.

Talk about electrical efficiency of your rear mount HVAC units?

Our systems exceed existing performance requirements while dramatically reducing the parasitic load draw at the engine. The result is a unit that requires the least amount of HP draw from the engine while more than satisfying the performance requirements. In contrast, our competition’s design uses 50% more power to run a rear mount system (50% less efficient).

7.

Which refrigerant do you use for ACE systems?

Our standard is R-134a which, as a single blend, is more maintenance friendly. Since the compressors are internally sized to meet a specific BTU output, R-134a is easily matched to corresponding needs. R407C is available upon request.