Rietveld & Autoclima | Truck Air Conditioners

Why Rietveld Partners with Autoclima

A good truck air conditioning system must do more than just provide adequate cooling. The system must also be compatible with the vehicle, the cab, the available installation space, and daily use.

One truck may have room for a roof-mounted unit, while another cab requires the roof hatch to remain clear. Sometimes a fully integrated solution is preferred. In other situations, a split-unit system offers the most installation flexibility.

That is why Rietveld collaborates with Autoclima, an Italian specialist in vehicle air conditioning systems. The company has been developing solutions for mobile climate control for over sixty years and offers an extensive product range for trucks, commercial vehicles, specialty vehicles, and machinery, among others.

Through this partnership, we combine:

Autoclima’s broad range of vehicle air conditioning systems;
various mounting and installation options;
reliable cooling while the vehicle is stationary;
Rietveld’s practical expertise;
expert advice tailored to each vehicle and application;
professional installation, service, and support.

This allows us to offer a stationary air conditioner that suits both the vehicle and the needs of the driver and fleet manager.

Moving forward together with expertise.

The strength of this partnership

Autoclima: specialist in vehicle air conditioning

Autoclima was officially founded in 1963 and is based in Cambiano, near Turin. From a modern facility spanning approximately 25,000 m², the company develops and manufactures air conditioning and cooling systems for a wide range of mobile applications.

Autoclima combines:

years of experience in mobile climate control;
in-house product development;
a wide range of systems and components;
a focus on innovation and reliability;
technical support before, during, and after installation;
solutions for both standard and specialty vehicles.

The company puts the customer’s application first. Autoclima supports customers in selecting the system, installing it, and using it.

Rietveld: specialist in consulting, installation, and custom solutions

Not every stationary air conditioner is suitable for every truck.

Rietveld therefore assesses the following in advance:

the make and model of the truck;
the model and interior volume of the cab;
the available space on, behind, or inside the cab;
the desired cooling capacity;
the battery capacity and electrical system;
use during breaks and overnight stays;
the desired installation method;
the preferences of the driver and employer.

Based on this, we recommend the Autoclima system that is the best fit both technically and practically.

Our technicians then handle the entire installation and ensure a safe, neat, and durable fit.

Why do organizations choose Autoclima?

Autoclima’s greatest strength is its wide range of stationary air conditioners.

Various models are availablewithin the Fresco series. This allows the installation to be tailored to a wide range of trucks, cab configurations, and mounting requirements.

Depending on the application, you can choose between:

a compact roof-mounted solution;
a split system with separate indoor and outdoor units;
a configuration that keeps the roof hatch accessible;
a fully integrated system;
a system for mounting behind the cab;
a vehicle-specific solution.

Autoclima positions the Fresco series as one of the broadest ranges of stationary air conditioning systems for industrial vehicles. The various models offer both the driver and the installer many options for creating a suitable configuration.

The Fresco Series from Autoclima

The Fresco stationary air conditioners are designed to cool the truck cab while the vehicle is stationary.

The systems operate while the vehicle’s engine is turned off. This allows the driver to enjoy a comfortable cabin climate during a break or overnight stay without having to keep the main engine idling.

Depending on the model chosen, the Fresco series offers:

cooling while the vehicle is stationary;
cab dehumidification;
various ventilation settings;
manual operation;
remote control;
vehicle battery protection;
various installation options;
a relatively low-maintenance system.

The wide selection of models makes it possible to consider not only cooling capacity, but also available space and the desired integration into the vehicle.

Rest comfortably with the engine off

A truck cab can heat up quickly on hot days.

For drivers who take breaks or spend the night on the road, this heat can lead to:

restless sleep;
fatigue;
reduced concentration;
a stuffy cabin environment;
a tendency to let the engine idle.

An Autoclima stationary air conditioner keeps the cab cooler and more comfortable when the vehicle is parked.

That means:

greater comfort while resting;
a better night’s sleep;
less heat stress;
less noise and vibration;
no exhaust fumes from an idling engine;
a more alert driver upon departure.

Autoclima emphasizes that getting a good rest not only increases comfort but can also contribute to greater safety on the road.

Cooling and Dehumidification

A pleasant cabin climate isn’t determined by temperature alone.

High humidity can also make the cab feel hot and stuffy. That’s why the Autoclima stationary air conditioners from the Sleeping Well and Fresco series feature a dehumidification function.

This removes moisture from the air, which contributes to:

a more pleasant interior climate;
less damp air;
less condensation;
a more restful sleep;
a fresher feeling in the cabin.

The cabin can remain closed while cooling. This reduces the chance of insects and dirt entering through open windows.

Various mounting solutions

Autoclima offers various ways to install a portable air conditioner in or on a truck.

Roof mounting

With a roof-mounted air conditioner, the main components are housed in a single unit on the cab roof.

Among other things, this offers:

a compact all-in-one solution;
few loose components in the cab;
efficient distribution of cooled air;
a neat and organized installation;
easy operation for the driver.

Roof mounting is particularly suitable when there is sufficient space available on the cab roof.

Split installation

In a split system, the indoor and outdoor units are separate from each other.

This allows Rietveld to determine, on a vehicle-by-vehicle basis, where both components can best be placed. A split solution offers more flexibility when:

the roof is not suitable for a complete roof unit;
the roof hatch must remain unobstructed;
installation behind or next to the cab is possible;
specific air distribution is desired;
the vehicle body requires customization.

Integrated Installation

With Fresco Genius, Autoclima also offers a fully integrated aftermarket solution. This system utilizes the vehicle’s original ventilation system and requires no modifications to the cab or the sunroof.

The system connects to the vehicle’s electronics and, according to Autoclima, delivers up to 2,800 watts of cooling capacity in the maximum air conditioning mode. Additionally, the roof hatch, vehicle height, and original aerodynamics are preserved.

The sunroof can remain accessible

On some vehicles, the sunroof must remain unobstructed.

The hatch can be used for:

natural ventilation;
daylight;
access to the cab roof;
an emergency or escape function;
specific tasks or vehicle conversions.

The Autoclima product line includes solutions where the air conditioning unit is not mounted in the roof hatch.

For example, you can choose a split system or an integrated unit. Autoclima also offers a version mounted behind the cab, which keeps the roof hatch accessible and ensures the unit remains within the vehicle’s overall dimensions.

Rietveld evaluates which installation type is best suited for each truck.

Fully Integrated Stand-Alone Air Conditioning

A fully integrated system is a good option when the installation needs to be as inconspicuous as possible.

The Fresco Genius uses the vehicle’s existing ventilation system. This eliminates the need for an additional air unit in the cab or a large roof-mounted unit.

Advantages of this solution include:

preservation of the original cab interior;
no increase in vehicle height;
preservation of the roof hatch;
no additional openings in the cab;
favorable aerodynamics;
reduced wind noise;
air distribution through the existing ventilation openings.

This solution is available for various commercial vehicles and comes in vehicle-specific versions.

Protection of the vehicle battery

A parking air conditioner draws power from the vehicle battery.

Therefore, it is important that the system does not continue to run indefinitely when the battery voltage drops too low. The Autoclima Sleeping Well systems are equipped with a battery-saving function.

This feature helps prevent the battery from discharging to the point where the vehicle can no longer start after the rest period.

Rietveld assesses in advance:

the capacity and condition of the batteries;
the vehicle’s voltage;
the expected duration of use;
the power consumption of other equipment;
the electrical connection;
the vehicle’s charging capacity.

This ensures that the system can be used reliably and responsibly.

Less Idling

Without parking air conditioning, drivers sometimes leave the vehicle’s engine running to keep the cab cool.

This leads to:

extra fuel consumption;
unnecessary engine hours;
more engine wear;
more emissions;
noise pollution;
higher operating costs.

The Fresco systems operate with the engine turned off. This reduces idling during breaks and overnight.

Autoclima cites fuel savings and a reduction in CO₂ emissions as key benefits of the Fresco series.

Easy operation

A parking air conditioner should be easy to use.

Depending on the model chosen, Autoclima systems can be operated using:

a control panel;
various fan speeds;
temperature settings;
a remote control;
automatic functions.

This allows the driver to adjust the cab climate without having to get up every time.

The controls are designed for daily use during breaks, waiting periods, and overnight stays.

Quiet operation during rest periods

An idle air conditioner must cool without unnecessarily disturbing a good night’s sleep.

The Sleeping Well series was developed with a focus on quiet operation. This is especially important in a compact sleeper cab, where noise from fans and other components is easily audible.

A quiet system contributes to:

a better night’s sleep;
fewer distractions;
greater comfort;
less stress during rest periods;
a more energized start to the next ride.

Proper installation by Rietveld also helps minimize vibrations and contact noise as much as possible.

Suitable for various trucks and commercial vehicles

Autoclima develops aftermarket solutions for various brands and vehicle types.

The product line can be used on, among others:

international tractor-trailers;
distribution trucks;
box trucks;
light commercial vehicles;
delivery vans;
industrial vehicles;
custom-built vehicles.

Autoclima also offers vehicle-specific air conditioning solutions for various brands of commercial and industrial vehicles.

Exact compatibility depends on:

the vehicle model;
the cab height;
the roof fixtures present;
the electrical system;
the desired installation method;
the required cooling capacity.

Rietveld determines the appropriate configuration for each vehicle.

Also for vehicles without factory-installed air conditioning

Not every commercial vehicle or machine comes equipped with a suitable air conditioning system from the factory.

Autoclima therefore also develops complete aftermarket solutions for vehicles without a factory-installed air conditioning system.

These systems are supplied as complete kits, including the parts needed for the specific application.

This allows Rietveld to retrofit vehicles with climate control, for example when:

there is no factory-installed air conditioning;
the original system lacks sufficient capacity;
an additional parking air conditioner is needed;
the vehicle has a special body configuration;
operating conditions have changed.

Reliable and affordable cab cooling

The Autoclima Fresco series offers various models and mounting options.

This allows Rietveld to find a solution within the available budget that meets:

the desired cooling performance;
the number of operating hours;
the cab size;
the available installation space;
the comfort level;
the vehicle’s age and remaining service life.

The goal is not automatically to install the heaviest or most extensive system, but to choose the solution that best suits practical needs.

This ensures that a good commercial vehicle air conditioning system remains accessible to a wide range of transportation companies and fleets.

Service and Parts

Autoclima not only manufactures complete air conditioning systems but also offers an extensive range of replacement parts and universal components.

The company supports customers during the selection, installation, and use of the product. Autoclima also has an international service network.

For Rietveld customers, this means:

access to the right parts;
support with maintenance and repairs;
diagnosis in case of malfunctions;
options for replacing components;
a single point of contact for installation and service.

This ensures that the in-vehicle air conditioning system can be reliably maintained throughout the vehicle’s lifespan.

What does this mean for our customers?

For drivers

A cooler cab during breaks and overnight stays
Less stuffy and humid air
Easy operation
Less noise and vibration than with the engine running
Greater comfort and a better night’s sleep

For fleet managers

A wide range of mounting solutions
Suitable for various vehicle types
Fewer hours of idling
Battery-saving function to protect the battery
Access to parts, maintenance, and service

For business owners

Less unnecessary fuel consumption
Lower emissions when the engine is idling
Greater comfort for drivers
A solution tailored to your vehicle and budget
Professional installation by Rietveld

For vehicle manufacturers and body shops

Roof-mounted, split, and integrated solutions
Flexible mounting options
Systems for standard and specialty vehicles
Complete kits and components
Technical support for custom solutions

The power of collaboration

Autoclima supplies the cooling technology and a wide range of standard air conditioning units. Rietveld ensures that this technology is applied correctly.

Together, we offer:

analysis of the vehicle and its intended use;
selection of the appropriate Autoclima model;
advice on cooling capacity and installation method;
inspection of the battery and electrical system;
professional installation;
instructions for the driver;
maintenance, repair, and service.

This ensures you don’t get a standard installation, but a solution tailored to the vehicle, the work being done, and your desired level of comfort.

Why choose Rietveld?

With over 25 years of experience in vehicle climate control, Rietveld has extensive expertise in consultation, installation, and service.

We don’t just look at the product, but at the entire application:

How large is the cab?
How often does the driver spend the night in the vehicle?
How much space is available?
Can the roof hatch be used?
Is a roof-mounted, split, or integrated solution preferred?
What is the battery capacity?
How much cooling capacity is needed?
What is the available budget?

Based on that, we’ll recommend and install a suitable Autoclima portable air conditioner.

In this way, we work together to empower organizations, employees, and fleets with smart, sustainable, and comfortable solutions.

Autoclima