Air conditioning is routinely standard equipment on cars and trucks but not helicopters. Robinson Helicopter Co. is looking to change that.

The Torrance-based maker of civilian choppers is now offering A/C in its models, after spending years wrestling with the inherent problems of added weight and reduced power.

The cooling units, which add 33 lbs. to Robinson’s R22 two-seat and R44 four-seat helicopters priced at $200,000 and up were tested in 115-degree heat in Phoenix this summer. The A/C adds $18,000 to the price.

“Executives wear suits even when it’s really hot out,” said Kurt Robinson, vice president of product support. “This should make the ride a lot more comfortable.” Up until now, passengers have had to open the vents to cool down; a noisy solution.

The company, which was started in 1975, sold 690 units grossing $220 million last year, according to Forecast International Inc. It markets its choppers as being cheaper and lighter weight than larger piston models as well as being less expensive to maintain.

They’re being used by commercial fisherman for spotting schools of tuna, news agencies for shooting footage, military pilots for training and by wealthy executives for shuttling around the huge and gridlocked cities of Brazil, where carjackings and kidnappings are rampant.

About 60 percent of Robinson’s sales are overseas. Rising interest rates and a stronger dollar are expected to cut into sales, but Robinson believes the new model should help attract added interest.

Forecast aerospace analyst Bill Dane agrees. “Anytime you have major upgrades, you see an initial flurry, a peak from pent-up demand from people waiting to buy the new model,” he said.