InterMotive Vehicle Controls has developed a Bluetooth version of its fully automatic stop/start idle reduction system. EcoStar III works with the key in or out of the ignition, so it helps keep the vehicle secure as well as prevent unnecessary idling.

EcoStar III automatically turns the engine off and on after the vehicle has been placed in Park for a programmable set amount of time. Using Bluetooth and a simple mobile app, EcoStar III is configurable to custom conditions and can pull data for tracking idle time reduction and fuel savings.

The system will monitor battery voltage and interior temperature (optional feature) to restart the engine if any of the specific condition settings are exceeded. It also includes high idle for quicker battery charge and better AC performance.

Example custom conditions:

• If the Vbat drops below 11.9V, restart the engine and charge the battery up to 13.4V for 8 minutes before shutting the engine off again;

• If the interior vehicle temperature drops below 57 degrees, restart the engine and raise the temperature to 71 degrees, then shut the engine off again.

EcoStar III is easily installed using innovative plug and play connections on work truck, fire truck, cutaway-bus and ambulance vehicles. The system will be introduced in March at the NTEA Work Truck Show at InterMotive’s booth no. 3880 with demonstrations in the Ride-and-Drive area. The system will also be available to order from builders, upfitters, dealers, or InterMotive’s master distributor, LGS Group.