The electrification of transport is one of the major challenges of technology. Mainly heavy transport. A section where there is significant progress but the sales rate is very low. To try to offer an alternative, to the Germans ZF has developed a kit that converts diesel trucks into hybrids.
This solution installs an electric drive system in the trailer. Called AxTrax 2, features a motor and a modular battery that allow it to both support traction and harness the energy of regenerative braking. An aspect that in this case has a double advantage since the trucks and the brakes are less affected on steep descents.
This allows the system to convert a diesel truck into a hybrid by simply coupling the trailer. An electrification that enables you an emissions and fuel saving of 16%.
Those interested can go one step further and vote the plug-in hybrid kit. There is also a battery with a larger capacity that can be charged via an external socket, which ZF says is possible Increase fuel savings by up to 40%.
Bernd Meurer, Head of Electric Trailer at ZF: “Trailer electrification is an innovative solution for the rapid decarbonization of road freight transport. Instead of simply being pulled by the truck, the new overall approach provides additional traction support while saving fuel, reducing CO2 emissions and increasing sustainability«.
Thanks to its modularity, the system can be adapted as needed to suit the different requirements and applications of manufacturers and fleet operators.
The kit has a drive system with up to 210 kW nominal power and a maximum torque of 26,000 Nm. A new solution that makes it easier for companies and manufacturers to electrify and reduce emissions while providing a competitive total cost of ownership, according to ZF.
