ZF introduces next-gen electric axle drive systems for light, heavy trucks

ZF's Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division has presented its latest e-mobility kit consisting of modular e-driveline systems suitable for light delivery vehicles through to 44-ton trucks and trailers. Production of these products are to commence from next year. 

The newly-introduced 'AxTrax 2' and 'AxTrax 2 dual' integrated systems complement the previously launched 'CeTrax 2' dual electric central drive system for commercial vehicles, and were recently demonstrated at ZF's Global Technology Day in Friedrichshafen.

"With our modular electric drive kit, ZF can provide customers with everything they need to electrify their commercial vehicles from last-mile delivery vehicles up to 44-ton trucks," said Winfried Gründler, Senior Vice President of Driveline Systems with ZF's Commercial Vehicle Solutions division. 

"The kit consists of scalable axle and central drive systems. Like other ZF electric systems, they can be easily combined with different electrification technologies, such as batteries or fuel cells, for example. The kit is complemented by a wide range of eComponents that have been developed and produced in-house". 

Gründler added, "Further extending ZF's unrivalled 'one-stop-shop' for commercial vehicle electrification, ZF's broad product portfolio, combined with extensive Group-wide expertise, enables the delivery of cost-efficient products that are designed to keep the total cost of ownership low. With these innovations, ZF has further cemented its position as the preferred eMobility development partner for leading truck, coach and bus brands worldwide". 

ZF claims to leverage scalable and modular platform approach to help its customers electrify all classes of commercial vehicles, from existing to all-new vehicle platforms. The latest solutions are designed to replace the engine, transmission, drive shaft and conventional axle to electrify a commercial vehicle, the company notes. 

The latest 'AxTrax 2' is offered in two power variants of 210 kW and 380 kW respectively. Included in the package is regenerative braking, wherein the energy is temporarily stored in a battery and can be used by the electric axle to support the truck drive.