ZF, an advanced technology company, is offering a pioneering concept to electrify the trailer, made possible by integrating the company’s AxTrax 2 electric axle with a modular battery system box for recuperation and traction support.
The ZF system has been designed as a highly integrated solution enabling manufacturers to combine electrified technologies into their own trailer platforms more easily.
This system takes advantage of braking energy recuperation to recharge the batteries to generate 16% fuel and CO2 savings, while the Plug-in Hybrid version can achieve 40% when combined with an ICE-powered truck.
ZF’s electrified trailer solution is designed to meet future standards and comply with national and regional regulations. The first electric trailers are expected to be operating on EU roads, once regularity classification has been received.
“Electrification for trailers is an innovative solution to decarbonize road freight transport in the very near future,” said Dr. Bernd Meurer, responsible for the electric trailer program at ZF. “Instead of solely being pulled by the truck, the new approach provides additional traction while generating fuel savings, reducing CO2 emissions and improving sustainability.
ZF says that its electrified trailer concept is gaining traction as interest from the industry grows. Bringing the benefits of electrified trailers to fleet operators took a step closer as ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division announced that it will cooperate with BPW to offer a fully integrated running gear system for trailer builders including ZF’s AxTrax 2 electric axle.
Kässbohrer and Krone, two trailer manufacturers will also start to implement ZF´s pioneering electrification system into their platforms.
What’s more… the ZF Aftermarket
- ZF Lifeguard E-Fluids now available. Addressing the higher levels of torque and force occurring in hybrid and electric engines, ZF Aftermarket has introduced a line of premium e-fluids specially formulated to provide lubrication, cooling, and electrical insulation, helping to maximize transmission efficiency, optimize temperature control and eliminate battery failure for reduced wear and improved vehicle performance. The latest introduction in this product range is ZF Lifeguard e-Fluid 1 that has been specifically designed for electric vehicles. For more information visit ZF.com.
- TRW Brake Boosters and Master Cylinders. ZF Aftermarket is also launching TRW Brake Master Cylinders manufactured in steel, aluminum or cast iron. They feature OE-specified rubber seals and dust caps to resist ageing and come with fitting accessories included. TRW Brake Master Cylinders also include a chrome six-free silver finish for steel and cast iron models for a protective, durable, and rust-resistant coating that is free of heavy metals.
Filed Under: Electrification, Technology News