ARCO Introduces the All-New ARCO Zeus High Output Alternators Designed for Maximum Power Generation
ARCO Zeus A275L (Large Frame) and A225S (Small Frame) introduce the highest power density of any alternator in its size/class.
Pensacola, FL – ARCO Marine, a leading provider of high-quality engine parts and innovative electrical system components, today announced the launch of the ARCO Zeus alternators (A275L and A225S), revolutionary high output alternators designed to meet the growing needs of boaters, RVers, military, and commercial applications.
In 2023, ARCO launched its line of ARCO Zeus high energy products with the ARCO Zeus Bluetooth alternator regulator. The Zeus Bluetooth alternator regulator was recognized as a true innovation in the marine and RV industries by winning the IBEX innovation award and nomination at METS. “The ARCO Zeus alternators are truly a game changer for those who require exceptional charging performance. The Zeus alternator line is a further development of our commitment to innovation in energy creation and management. Due to the sustained power that our alternators provide, we at ARCO are proud to help users adopt technology that meets the demands of today’s power consumption needs and is one step closer to eliminating the need for a standalone generator.” Said Ben Stoddard, CEO at ARCO Marine. “The A275L and A225S are engineered for high energy production, and energy-savvy users and technicians will be delighted when they see the price.”
A major innovation behind the ARCO Zeus alternator regulators is that they boast the coolest operating temperatures for increased performance. In fact, the ARCO Zeus alternators run 8 – 20% cooler than the competitors. This enables the alternators to produce more amperage for sustained periods. Factors that contribute to this innovation are heat-shedding coatings, the rectifier being located on the exterior of the housing, dual cooling fans, and highest-quality OEM parts.
These alternators come in both internal/external and externally-only regulated models. Although the ARCO Zeus alternators are compatible with other external regulators, now users can optimize their energy systems by bundling with the ARCO Zeus Bluetooth alternator regulator.
To be used in most user’s vessels and vehicles, these alternators come in a variety of housings. The A275L comes in Dual Foot 3.15” J180 and 4” J180. The A275L is also available in Single Foot 1”-2”, Vortec, Ford Transit, and N62 housing options. The A225S is available in Vortec, Single Foot 1”-2”, and Dual Foot 3.15” J180 housing options.
“During our alternator development, we discovered a gap between published power curves and real-world performance. Further investigation revealed some competitors might be testing under ideal, cooler conditions to inflate output figures.” Said Ben Stoddard, CEO at ARCO Marine. “To ensure our alternators deliver top performance in everyday use, we implemented rigorous internal testing. This process evaluates high-performing components under conditions that replicate real-world scenarios.”
Power curves and testing details are available on the A275L and A225S product pages. To measure sustained HOT output, the alternator is run at 3,000 RPMs for 60 minutes with a plexiglass shield covering the units. Testing shows that after 60 minutes in these conditions, alternators reach their maximum operating temperature. It is under these harsh conditions where we measure the “HOT” output of the units at various RPMs. The complete power “COLD” testing was done at 71° F (21.5° C).
ARCO Marine is a trusted manufacturer and supplier of innovative electrical systems and high-quality engine parts designed to meet the needs of users of all levels. The company offers a wide range of products, including alternators, regulators, starters, motors, and more. ARCO Marine is committed to delivering high-quality, reliable products that help boaters and RVers enjoy their time on the water and road. Users are encouraged to reach out to ARCO Marine [email protected] with any questions.
You can view the ARCO Zeus A275L here: arcomarine.com/products/arco-zeus-a275l
You can view the ARCO Zeus A225S here: arcomarine.com/products/arco-zeus-a225s
You can view the full ARCO Zeus high energy line or products here: arcomarine.com/collections/zeus-high-energy-products
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Wow. So many words not to tell us the output.
I thought that maximum output might be in the model numbers, but the claimed max numbers are higher!
Maybe they’re trying to make the point that actual alternator output has much to do with RPM and the ability to stay cool in hot conditions?
At any rate, they spec the big $1,022 A275 at:
Max Output (Cold, 9,000 RPM) 311 Amps
Sustained Cruising Output (Hot, 6,000 RPM) 227 Amps
Sustained Idle Output (Hot, 3,000 RPM) 198 Amps
Max Continuous Operating Temperature 110°C / 230°F
And the smaller $795 A225S at:
Max Output (Cold, 9,000 RPM) 254 Amps
Sustained Cruising Output (Hot, 6,000 RPM) 187 Amps
Sustained Idle Output (Hot, 3,000 RPM) 157 Amps
Looks like the A225S has a sustained output of 187 amps, according to their specs.
Impressive comment on the Arco site from not-easily-impressed Rod Collins:
“When I was invited to be a member of the ARCO Zeus advisory board I was a bit skeptical. I knew ARCO, but I knew them to sell stock replacement alternators, starters etc.. In other-words nothing to get very excited about? I then had a long conversation about the new Alternator regulator they were working on with their CEO, and he really impressed me. He swore the advisory board was to be handpicked with industry experts from both marine and the RV industries and in the end it was an amazing team. I’ve been involved in a number of new product designs, so know how this normally works… The speed, efficiency and access to the engineers, coders/designers inside ARCO was astounding and like nothing I’d ever seen. They operated insanely efficiently. We literally went from ideas on paper to a finished design in a matter of weeks. When it came to the Zeus app they were once again very responsive and never wasted a second correcting noted issues. Working together with ARCO on the Zeus Regulator, which is sorely needed in the industry, was a joy! Watch out for ARCO Lots of great stuff in the works.”
A few years back I was searching for a replacement starter for an old outboard, the only seller was ARCO so I drove over from Mobile (Alabama) to their location in Pensacola with the faulty starter in hand. The person behind the counter made a very positive impression with his professionalism. When he returned with the replacement, it was physically bigger and heavier than the faulty one, and he briefly explained that the replacement was factory spec whereas the replacement was not. More than 5 years later, and the starter spins the engine every time!
I think your article understates the value that ARCO adds to their products and to the industry. Thank you for publishing and reminding me of the pleasant experience.
Great to see Arco jumping into the high power compact alternator game. And for a competitive price.
However, to claim them as a game changer or something really new, is misleading, at best, and false advertising at worst.
American Power Systems, Inc. has been producing the super compact HPI series for years now. In fact the new Arcos are near copies of the APS HPI 255A x 12V, and 360A x 12V. I guess imitation is the sincerest form of flattery & respect..;-)
Arco is a capable outfit, it will be interesting to see if they come out with 24V & 48V models to compete with APS. Which are actually far more powerful in kW (in the same size case) than any of the 12V compact options.