Country music performer Trace Adkins joined executives from IdleAire Technologies at a press conference Tuesday, March 14 to announce a partnership in which the “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk” singer will serve as a spokesperson to communicate the benefits of IdleAire to longhaul truck drivers nationwide.
Already in 24 locations in 11 states and now being deployed in some 210 additional truck stops and fleet terminals in 35 states, IdleAire’s Advanced Truckstop Electrification system is designed to allow any longhaul driver to stop idling their truck to maintain cab comfort during mandated daily rest periods, or while waiting to load or unload. The system also provides electrical outlets and a variety of communications and entertainment options for drivers. The only retrofit needed for any longhaul truck, according to IdleAire, is a $10 window adapter.
Adkins first learned of the IdleAire system from his bus driver, an IdleAire member, who explained the benefits to him. “That’s when I knew this was worth looking into,” Adkins says. “I have a great deal of respect for drivers, and I know how hard they work and how vital their work is.” After talking with other professionals and climbing in a truck cab to review IdleAire’s system, Adkins made the decision to serve as a spokesperson for the company.
Adkins will make personal appearances throughout the year on IdleAire’s behalf and will videotape a wide variety of messages for delivery to drivers and fleets. In turn, he will have access to IdleAire’s own in-cab Trucking Entertainment Network, which includes an IdleAire-developed television channel dubbed TENCountry that delivers country music videos and other entertainment to drivers when connected to the IdleAire system.
Mike Crabtree, IdleAire chief executive officer, says the company is excited to have an individual of Adkins’ visibility and stature among truck drivers, who represent a core of country music’s fan base. “We anticipate that he will provide invaluable assistance in the company’s marketing efforts as we pursue our aggressive growth plan over the next 15 months,” Crabtree says.
Adkins’ management company, Vector Management, also will bring some of its other artists to the IdleAire cause. Jo Dee Messina and Josh Gracin both will visit IdleAire’s booth at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ky. on March 23-25 to meet drivers and sign autographs.
“I’m extremely excited about my association with IdleAire because their system is exceedingly beneficial for so many,” Adkins says. “Not only does it improve the lives of drivers by providing the opportunity for better rest, healthier air and modern conveniences in the cab, but it also saves fleets the costs associated with idling, including fuel, maintenance and engine wear. It also greatly improves the air we all breathe and moves our nation toward energy independence, which benefits everyone, including my family.”
