Commercial truck cap manufacturer A.R.E. has partnered with STRATTEC Security Corporation to provide the automotive supplier's BOLT one-key lock technology on its popular Deluxe Commercial Unit (DCU) truck caps.
A.R.E.'s DCU truck cap, which is made of fully welded aluminum frame construction, currently features STRATTEC automotive-grade lock cylinders in folding t-handles on all doors for added security. The BOLT lock systems within the cylinders are designed to permanently program themselves to the specific vehicle's ignition key, eliminating the need for multiple keys to operate the truck cap.
"One of the biggest problems that fleet managers have is drivers losing or breaking keys, which can result in unnecessary downtime, lost man hours and security issues," said Jim Blayne, Commercial/Fleet Division Sales Manager, A.R.E. "The benefit of the BOLT technology is that is saves commercial users time and money while offering one-key convenience for the entire vehicle, and A.R.E. is committed to working with industry partners and delivering these value-added innovations to our customers."
Here's how the technology works: When drivers insert their ignition key into the lock cylinder, spring-loaded plate tumblers move up and down until they are matched exactly to that key. The first time the key is rotated, the cylinder is uniquely coded to only that key. When the key is removed, the cylinder moves into the locked position. When the key is turned again, it will rotate to the unlocked position.
"Our patented design means that any number of locks in the BOLT series can be set to one key, allowing drivers to use their single ignition key to not only lock their vehicle, but their truck cap doors, toolboxes, trailer hitch locks and any other equipment professionals use on a daily basis," said STRATTEC Director of New Market Development Mike Long. "And because the locks feature automotive-grade security they offer higher quality, durability and corrosion resistance."
A.R.E. offers more than 100 options on its DCU truck cap to give fleet professionals the power to create a customizable solution for their trucks, choosing from a variety of door and window configurations, toolboxes, ladder racks, interior fabric liners, side panels and cap heights from 23 to 36 inches. In addition, A.R.E. provides organizational solutions, such as a full selection of plastic storage bins to hold small parts, tools, extension cords, nails and screws in the side compartments of the DCU. A.R.E. truck caps come with a three-year warranty on materials and workmanship.
The BOLT system will be standard later this summer on 2012 model year A.R.E. DCUs for domestic trucks (GM, Ford and Chrysler) only.
