Range Energy, a pioneer in commercial trucking electrification, has successfully completed rigorous winter testing of its advanced eTrailer System, which turns large diesel trucks into hybrid electric.
The testing validated its technology’s performance, safety, and reliability in subzero temperatures and extreme road conditions. It was conducted in Northern Michigan, where engineers evaluated the system’s ability to operate on ice and snow and deliver superior handling and stability in the most demanding environments.
Improvements were seen across vital safety evaluations, including braking distance and anti-jackknifing tests.
By collaborating with ZF, Range ensures its system integrates seamlessly with existing braking and stability control systems. Testing confirmed that these systems work cooperatively to make the combined tractor and trailer safer and easier to control. After extensive calibration and refinement, Range is confident in the system’s performance and robustness to maximize the trailer’s performance across the full range of road surfaces and trailer loads.
During testing, engineers ran a sequence of trials to assess how the system behaves on low- and variable-friction surfaces, fine-tuning the controls in real-time. Sensors were installed throughout the truck and trailer to monitor the vehicle and capture data to improve the system.
One of the key focuses of the testing was Range’s in-house traction control system, which assists the trailer when traction is limited, helping drivers maintain operations without degrading stability. Braking performance was tested to guard against disrupting the ABS system and achieve decreases in braking distance beyond baseline trailer performance.
The Range system consists of a high-voltage battery, an electrified axle (e-axle) capable of delivering several hundred kilowatts of power, and a suite of sensors that detect the tractor’s motion. The Range system’s intelligent controls can respond to driver intentions without requiring a data connection between the tractor and trailer.
It also includes a next-generation sensing system, eliminating the need for invasive modifications to the existing trailer. This breakthrough improves scalability, simplifies manufacturing, and allows Range to maintain the traditional kingpin and upper coupler design.
Highlights from the winter testing can be viewed in this video.
Filed Under: Technology News