Xantrex’s inverter/charger transforms DC voltage from a truck’s batteries to household electricity so truckers can power appliances without idling the engine. Providing 1,000 watts of continuous power and 3,000 watts of peak power, Xantrex’s device transforms 12-volt DC power to household alternating current (120-volt AC) so regular appliances, electronics, and tools can be operated in or around a truck. When connected to 'shore power' at a truckstop, terminal, or at home, all 12-volt DC and 120-volt AC loads run off the inverter/charger while it simultaneously charges batteries, said Xantrex.

Kurt Hollinger, a marketing manager at Volvo, said the company found the inverter/charger to be a popular item when it conducted focus groups prior to the launch of its 770 model. “Since we began offering shore power connections and inverter/chargers, interest has grown,” he said. “It's one of the more popular options we have now – more than 5,000 VN770s have been wired for shore power.”