A new ePowertrain for heavy-duty vehicles hit the track for the first time at Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. The 17Xe ePowertrain, developed by Meritor (now part of Cummins) with Advanced Propulsion Consortium (APC) partners Danfoss’ Editron division and Electra, has successfully demonstrated within a test truck.
With output capabilities of 430kW continuous power, the integrated 17Xe ePowertrain will power heavy-duty trucks and buses in 6×2 or 4×2 configurations. It is available in a range of ratios and with three-speed transmission capabilities.
Danfoss’ Editron division developed and supplied the high-power electric motor and high-efficiency silicon carbide inverter powering the axle. The electric motor will be based on a patented architecture and thermal management methodology exceeding the APC’s 2035 Roadmap targets for power density. As a result, only one motor will be required in the electric powertrain design, marking a significant step forward for the industry, as current alternatives usually need two motors to meet this product segment’s power requirements.
“I am really proud to see this major milestone by demonstrating a fully integrated e-axle into a heavy-duty vehicle,” added Sunil Maher, Senior Project Delivery Lead, APC.“Seeing this prototype vehicle in operation is a significant step to addressing net-zero transport challenges in the UK. I look forward to the next stage of development which will see technical improvements and further product variation, to deliver solutions for heavy-duty and commercial vehicles.
The collaboration between Cummins, Danfoss’ Editron division, and Electra Commercial vehicles accelerates technology development, and with the funding support this enhances skills, and increases capabilities which strengthen the UK’s supply chain as well as safeguarding and creating jobs.”
