PACIFIC, Mo. – Husky Corp. recently unveiled a compact and flexible nozzle for use in Automatic Refueling System (ARS). Husky collaborated with Stockholm, Sweden-based Fuelmatics Systems AB to develop this third-generation technology for drive-thru fueling systems.
Drive-thru refueling involves a robot automatically filling a vehicle while the driver remains inside. Fuelmatics created the world's first ARS system. The Fuelmatics system reduces fueling time by 30%, providing a faster customer experience and increasing fuel throughput for retailers at the same time, the company said.
Fuelmatics developed advanced robotics technology that readily locates a vehicle's fuel door and opens it after a customer pulls into an ARS location. Husky engineers used venturi components to develop a spout that extends into the vehicle's fuel neck through a cap-less insert, which are increasingly common in new vehicles. The ARS system refuels the vehicle to the desired tank level thanks to a vacuum-based automatic shutoff system included in the Husky design.
"This is forward-looking technology. We are pleased to work with Fuelmatics to develop the nozzle that will make automatic refueling a genuine reality," said Husky executive vice president Brad Baker.
"No one likes to refuel. It's a necessity. But our product eliminates some of the hassle. It's faster, cleaner, more convenient, and more environmentally friendly with no vapor or spill at all," said Sten Corfitsen, Fuelmatics founder. "The Fuelmatics system makes self-service refueling obsolete."
The Fuelmatics system is an attractive marketing option for current high-volume fuel retailers. It also offers advantages for marketers seeking to stand out in locations where fueling stations are highly concentrated by offering a unique refueling experience, speed and value, the company said.
Based in Pacific, Mo., Husky offers fuel nozzles, safe-t-breaks and accessories, a line of nozzles for vapor recovery, conventional fueling, truck and high-volume, farm and commercial and convenience stores, as well as curb and farm hoses, oil lube products and aviation hoses.
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