38 minute read
Looking back at IAA 2022
LOOKING BACK AT RECORD BREAKING IAA TRANSPORTATION 2022
Global trade is increasing. Logistics chains are evolving. At the same time, delivery and freight traffic must be harmonized with the shift to new forms of urban mobility.
The IAA Transportation is regarded by many as the world’s most important platform for the future of the commercial vehicle industry and as such it has to keep up with these developments. No matter whether you’re looking at electric or hydrogen-powered buses, connected, automated truck fleets for long-haul routes, driverless people movers or electric cargo bikes – with its exhibitors and brands the IAA Transportation stands for an overall picture of transport – and as the industry meeting place of the year, it was the place to be. Over the next number of pages, the Export & Freight team bring you some of the highlights of the show in words and pictures…
Mercedes-Benz Trucks showcases latest diesel-powered trucks
Mercedes-Benz Trucks showcased which innovative solutions it intends to use to further expand its strong market position with the help of the Actros L and the Actros L Edition 3.
The top-of-the-range Actros
L model caters for a high level of driver comfort which is emphasised by the driver’s cab with its width of 2.50 metres, available as Stream Space, Big Space and Giga Space variants. The flat floor in the cab creates a cosy ambience. The improved sound and heat insulation reduces the noise level and makes the time spent in the cab even more pleasant – both when driving and during rest stops. The third-generation 12.8-litre OM 471 engine for heavy-duty commercial vehicles is an example of further optimised fuel efficiency. The new engine available in the Mercedes-Benz Actros L from October 2022 features a vast range of technical innovations that are consistently aimed at reducing the total cost of ownership with regard to fuelsaving driving, reduced CO2 emissions, lower operating costs, and higher margins, without affecting performance, vehicle dynamics or driving comfort. In addition, safety assistance systems such as the fifthgeneration Active Brake Assist with pedestrian detection (ABA 5), Lane Keeping Assist and the second-generation MirrorCam, or the equipment options of the second-generation Active Drive Assist (ADA 2) for partially automated driving to Level 2, or Active Sideguard Assist (ASGA), also make important contributions to safety.
ACTROS EDITION 3
As a limited special model of the Actros L with a “Wow!” effect, Edition 3 was also being showcased. The luxury of the Edition 3 is marked by a whole range of equipment features. In its stylish interior, these include the instrument panel and door handles in nappa leather, various interior parts with a carbon fibre look, and the roof hatch with its ambient lighting. The Edition 3 badge on the front passenger side and the illuminated “Edition 3” entry badge on the driver and front passenger sides are also eye-catching. The top bunk comes with bedding and is 900 millimetres wide. An all-round curtain – almond beige on the inside, black on the outside – ensures stylish privacy. The same applies to the curtain with the MercedesBenz star in front of the bunk. Highlights on the exterior include the exclusive decals on the side wall, the “Edition 3” lettering in the white aluminium sun visor with two additional LED headlights, the Actros emblem at the front in dark chrome, and the Actros lettering on the upper rear cab wall. The stainless steel entry steps are striking features on the side of the vehicle. The front and rear axle caps are also made of stainless steel. Edition 3 is available for all two- and three-axled models of the latest Actros L generation with GigaSpace and BigSpace cabs in left- and right-hand drive versions. The cab paint finish is freely selectable and can be adapted to customers’ liveries, while the front of the vehicle is always painted in white aluminium metallic to guarantee a high recognition value. Whether it’s high-end power with the 15.6 litre OM 473 engine or further reduced consumption with the new OM 471 engine in its third generation, thanks to improved gearshift performance by PowerShift Advanced for all available drivetrains the Actros L Edition 3 offers all drivers impressive performance and a high level of driving pleasure.
Following the market launch of the eActros 300/400 for heavy-duty distribution in 2021, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is not only pushing ahead with the introduction of further battery electric models for this and the coming years, but also focusing on even more diversity and flexibility in applications for the eActros itself.
At this year’s IAA, Mercedes-Benz Trucks showcased a wide range of new applications for the eActros. As a tractor unit for heavyduty distribution transport, for example, it is available with an electric power take-off solution for hookloaders and skiploaders. How Mercedes-Benz Trucks is expanding the application variants of the eActros consistently is demonstrated, for example, by the eActros 300 as a tractor. Production launch is planned for the second half of 2023. Particularly suitable for flexible use in heavyduty distribution transport, the electric truck is based on the same technology as the eActros 300 as a solo vehicle or articulated train. The vehicle with an M cab can tow all common European semitrailers, taking into account the maximum permissible overall towing length. As with the eActros 300, which has already been launched, the technological centerpiece is the drive unit, an electric rigid axle with two integrated electric motors and two-speed transmission. The two motors mounted centrally on the rear axle generate a continuous output of 330 kW (443 hp) and a peak output of 400 kW (536 hp). The direct torque supply of the electric motors, coupled with the two-speed transmission, ensures powerful acceleration, impressive driving comfort and dynamics that enable more relaxed and stress-free driving compared to conventional diesel trucks. Three battery packs are fitted, with an installed capacity of 112 kWh.The range is up to 220 kilometres. When driving with foresight, recuperation can recover electrical energy and increase range. The battery-powered tractor can be charged with up to 160 kW: The three battery packs take just over an hour to charge from 20% to 80% at a standard DC fast-charging station with 400 A charging current. As with all eActros models, the safety equipment includes the external Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System in accordance with legal requirements; fifth-generation Active Brake Assist technology with pedestrian detection capability; and the Sideguard Assist turning assistant. For visual warnings, the turning assistant uses the MirrorCam display, which is installed in the eActros instead of conventional mirrors. Mercedes-Benz Trucks will continue to expand its portfolio of medium-duty batteryelectric vehicles for distribution transport. The manufacturer is already working intensively on the eAtego, which will be launched to the market in the next few years.
FULLY ELECTRIC EECONIC
The eEconic, also shown at this year’s IAA Transportation, is technologically based on the eActros. It celebrated its trade show premiere at the end of May at IFAT 2022 in Munich and went into series production at the Wörth plant in July. The eEconic is intended to cover the vast majority of routes typical for the Econic in single-shift operation without intermediate charging. The electric drivetrain enables a level cab floor, which in turn makes it easier to climb through the cab – a particular advantage if the driver wants to get out via the folding door on the passenger side, exiting onto the pavement rather than into the path of traffic. The modern and intuitive Multimedia Cockpit also represents a significant upgrade compared with the conventional Econic.
IVECO goes electric with the new eDAILY
IVECO unveiled the brand-new zero-emission eDAILY; conceived to be the “electric twin” of the iconic Daily, eDAILY covers all LCV applications – including heavy-duty missions and conversions.
eDAILY is the same Daily you know – just electric. Performance is in line with the ICE version: 140kW (190CV) max power, 400Nm max torque and up to 120km/h maximum speed. Driveability is improved by the instant torque delivery of the eMotor. When extra-power is needed, drivers can take advantage of an additional boost by activating eDAILY’s distinctive Hi-Power function. Energy use can be optimised thanks to the Driving Mode Selector – which allows either to extract maximum power or minimise power absorption. eDAILY’s One-Pedal Drive mode makes driving easier and converts brake kinetic energy into electricity, thus reducing energy consumption and brake pads wear. eDAILY offers as much range as necessary: modular battery installation allows customers to choose the level of range autonomy that best suits their mission. The configuration can be upgraded throughout the vehicle’s life. eDAILY is offered in van, cab, crew cab, chassis cowl and minibus body variants from 3.5 to 7.2 GVW, in single wheel and twinwheel versions, with a broad range of height and wheelbase options. All technology and comfort features of the standard Daily are available on the electric model, including the AIR-PRO intelligent pneumatic suspension. eDAILY can be already ordered across Europe, with deliveries starting from the beginning of next year.
MAN shapes the change
The decarbonisation of freight transport, the digitalisation of logistics and the worsening shortage of truck drivers pose fundamental challenges for transport companies.
MAN Truck & Bus used the IAA to provide some answers to these questions, and shaping the change: in conventional products with even lower consumption, even more workplace attractiveness and comfort for drivers as well as even more innovative digital services; for future CO2-free and intelligently networked transport with the development of autonomous vehicles and the market launch of the purely electric large-series truck from 2024. That eTruck was showing for the first time in Hanover as a near-series prototype. With a daily range of up to 800 kilometres and megawatt charging capability, the new eTruck, which will go into service with the first customers from 2024, will not only electrify long-distance transport, but with its versatility also all common transport segments covered by diesel trucks today. Its production with conventional trucks on a series production line makes the switch from diesel to electric particularly flexible. Together with comprehensive advice on electromobility and charging infrastructure, MAN thus makes it much easier for transport companies to switch to CO2-free drives. A special technical feature of the pioneering electric lion is its preparation for future megawatt charging: high charging capacities with short charging times make the electric truck suitable for heavy-duty long-distance transport with daily ranges of between 600 and 800 kilometres, and at a later date even up to 1000 kilometres. Meanwhile, MAN brought a new edition of the D26 engine to the IAA. A large number of engine improvements mean that the allrounder for long-distance transport, heavyduty distribution applications and construction site traffic consumes up to 3 percent less fuel than the current version, which is already very economical - and that with a simultaneous increase in torque by 50 Nm and a supplement of 10 hp for all performance variants. Additional savings for long-distance transport are brought about by new aerodynamic measures for the MAN TGX, which further reduce the air resistance when the air flows around the driver’s cab, and with extensions that improve the transition of the air flow to the trailer: Together with the engine savings, this means fuel savings of up to 4% possible in long-distance traffic.
Sustainable mobility solutions from Michelin
Michelin was showing fleet operators and managers how to get their companies fit for the future, with their stand dedicated to sustainable mobility solutions with tyres, for tyres and beyond tyres.
Optimising fuel efficiency,
reducing CO2 emissions, improving durability, extending tyre service life and recycling tyres – Michelin brought a whole host of solutions to IAA that will lower the overall costs associated with commercial vehicles and shrink their carbon footprint. For example, Michelin X Multi Energy saves up to 1.1litres per 100kilometres over short and longhaul journeys. This tyre exhibits optimised rolling resistance and has also been designed for a high mileage potential – both features that benefit overall performance. Tyres from Michelin also score highly when it comes to protecting the environment and conserving resources. Two of the focal points were the key issues of retreading and recycling. For example, using the special MICHELIN REMIX retreading service to process and regroove truck tyres to a high quality standard extends their mileage performance by up to 150 per cent. At its modern plant in Homburg, Michelin has production capacities of up to 620,000 retreaded tyres per year. The truck plant in Stoke-On-Trent also plays a key role in this area with an annual production capacity of up to 310,000 retreaded tyres.
Daimler Truck unveils battery-electric eActrosLongHaul truck
Daimler Truck is pursuing the goal of complete locally CO2 neutral transport. The manufacturer demonstrated this with a broad portfolio of fully electric vehicles at the show.
The highlight was the heavy-duty, batteryelectric Mercedes-Benz eActrosLongHaul long-distance truck, which the manufacturer presents to the public for the first time. The series-production eActrosLongHaul has a range of around 500 kilometres on a single battery charge and is capable of megawatt charging. Readiness for series production is planned for 2024. Another innovation at the trade show ws the battery-electric MercedesBenz eActros 300 in a tractor version for flexible heavy-duty distribution transport. In addition, Daimler Truck has announced the battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eAtego for the medium-duty segment. The eActrosLongHaul will be the first all-electric series-production vehicle from Mercedes-Benz Trucks to be manufactured from start to finish on the existing assembly line at the Wörth truck plant. The batteries used in the eActrosLongHaul employ lithiumiron phosphate cell technology. These are characterised, above all, by a long service life and more usable energy. The batteries of the production eActrosLongHaul can be charged from 20% to 80% in well under 30 minutes at a charging station with an output of about one megawatt. The core of the Mercedes-Benz Trucks concept for battery-electric long-distance transport is to offer customers a holistic solution consisting of vehicle technology, consulting, charging infrastructure and services. First prototypes are already undergoing intensive testing and the eActrosLongHaul will be trialled on public roads this year. In the coming year, near-production prototypes will go to customers for real-world use testing.
Impressive New Launches from DAF Trucks
DAF Trucks starts the future of vocational and distribution transport with the launch of the New Generation DAF XD and XDC. In addition, DAF strengthens its environmental leadership with the reveal of a completely new series of fully electric powertrains for the New Generation DAF XD and XF trucks. These exciting new trucks offer ‘zero emission’ ranges of over 500 kilometres on a single charge.
The New Generation DAF XD series shares the DNA of the ‘International Truck of the Year 2022’, the multiple award-winning XF, XG and XG+ long haul vehicles. The cab design of the New Generation DAF XD features a large windscreen and large side windows with an ultra-low belt line for best-in-class direct vision. This is achieved in combination with the low cab position (17 cm lower than the New XF) and the new ‘Vision Dashboard’, which is characterized by being contoured towards the windscreen on the co-driver side. As an option, a Kerb View Window and foldable co-driver seat are available for an unobstructed view of pedestrians and cyclists next to the truck on the co-driver side. The DAF Digital Vision System and DAF Corner View add to unparalleled indirect view. The DAF City Turn Assist alerts the driver with visual and audible warnings when other road users are in the co-driver’s side blind zone. First class fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions are realised through the perfectly formed aerodynamic cab. It features the same large radii, curved windscreen, excellent sealing and optimal engine and under cab airflow as DAF’s XF, XG and XG+ long distance models.
DRIVER COMFORT
The New Generation XD offers superior, highly accessible and spacious cabs with volumes of up to 10 m3. Together with a Sleeper and Sleeper High Cab, a Day Cab is available that offers extended interior space as standard. An ideal driving position is guaranteed through unmatched adjustment ranges of seat and steering wheel. The striking and highly ergonomic dashboard features crystal clear and fully digital instrument panels. Ride and handling benefit from a new superior chassis frontend design, cab suspension and rear axle suspension. The New Generation DAF XD is available to order in a full array of 4x2 and 6x2 axle configurations, both tractors and rigids. Production will start this Autumn.
CONSTRUCTION APPLICATIONS
DAF also presented the New Generation DAF XDC and XFC. These high-quality construction vehicles feature single or double drive two, three and four axle configurations to meet specific requirements of the vocational and construction segment. The New Generation XDC with 10.8 litre PACCAR MX-11 engine and XFC with 10.8 litre PACCAR MX-11 and 12.9 litre PACCAR MX-13 engine, offer high payloads thanks to low kerb weights. These construction models are designed to handle the toughest work under the harshest conditions and have a robust bumper, a sturdy grille and a steel radiator protection plate. The XDC and XFC trucks offer a large approach angle and a high ground clearance for excellent off road performance. DAF’s new premium trucks for the vocational and construction industry will enter production early 2023 and are available to order now.
ELECTRIC VEHICLES
Meanwhile, DAF Trucks strengthens its position as the leading manufacturer of ‘zero emission’ vehicles with the launch of the New XD and XF Electric trucks. These innovative trucks feature completely new modular drivelines for ‘zero emission’ ranges from 200 to over 500 kilometres on a single charge. The DAF XD Electric and DAF XF Electric will become available as tractor and rigid models and can be ordered now.
Volvo Trucks Presents New Electric Axle for Extended Range
Volvo Trucks has unveiled a completely new, fully electric rear axle. Freeing up space for more batteries, the new e-axle allows for even longer range for Volvo’s battery electric trucks.
The manufacturer has the widest offer of battery electric trucks in the industry, with six different models in serial production. Depending on the model, the range is up to 440 km in one charge. The new e-axle allows even more batteries on the truck by integrating the electric motors and the transmission into the rear axle. More batteries mean longer range, which creates opportunities to provide electric solutions for even long-distance transport. On the fuel cell electric trucks that will be introduced in the second half of this decade, the additional space comes in handy for installing other components. “This is a breakthrough for electric trucks and a clear signal that there will be a huge demand for public fast-chargers for heavy trucks in the near future, not least along highways,” says Jessica Sandström, SVP Global Product Management at Volvo Trucks. Volvo Trucks will start serial production of cab over engine trucks with the new e-axle in a few years from now and it will complement the current line-up of battery electric trucks.
Scania: Visionary solutions brought to life
Scania had 14 different vehicles on display in three different areas – from visionary battery-electric trucks, smart urban solutions including buses, and industry-leading Scania trucks with the Super-based powertrain.
Scania’s recently introduced
next-level battery-electric trucks for regional haulage was on display for the first time, while two new powerful – 420 and 460 hp – biogas truck engines from Scania to make their world première. Scania has for many years conveyed the message that there is no silver-bullet solution available for the transport industry when fighting climate change. According to Scania, fossil-free fuels like biomethane and biodiesel play an important role for reaching the company’s own sciencebased, CO2-reduction targets. The central part of the display stand was used for exposing Scania’s wide offer of digital and connected services and charging solutions. Two new services made their debut at IAA: My Scania and the Scania Driver app. Both are set to pave the way for increased customer efficiency and profitability. On the electrification side, Scania was showing four battery-electric vehicles indoors: one unit of the recently introduced new BEV for regional purposes, one BEV bus and two BEV trucks for urban applications. At the outdoor arena, Scania was displaying five vehicles. Among them were a BEV city tipper with the well-known Scania XT characteristics, especially robustness and durability. It was accompanied by one conventional XT sibling with a Scania V8, plus one heavy-haulage V8 tractor and an Irizar coach.
Super Heavy Loader Crane from Hiab
Hiab presented the new HIAB iQ.1388 HiPro super heavy loader crane, the biggest on-road HIAB loader crane to date, equipped with the new advanced control system SPACEevo for improved productivity and safer operations.
The HIAB iQ.1388 HiPro is a 135 tonne metre (tm) super heavy range crane that combines Hiab’s experience in structural engineering with advancements in operating systems. The loader crane has a V10-Force decagonal profile first used in the EFFER 1000 that provides increased strength for vertical performance and improved overall precision. The precision and safety are further enhanced by the SPACEevo control system that provides advanced safety and productivity functions for veteran and novice operators alike. The Load Stability System for vertical movements (LSSV) compensates for unintentionally excessive lever movement in vertical operations, while Hiab’s Variable Stability Logic PLUS (VSL+) stability feature optimises lifting capacity with maintained safety, monitoring the position of and pressure on each stabiliser leg. The crane is suitable for several types of applications as it has a high lifting capacity, yet it can be installed on a 4 axle 32 GVW truck, making it suitable for operation in metropolitan areas. The size advantage also helps to keep purchase and operating costs down and reduce CO2 emissions. “This is not just simply a new model. It is the answer to a long-time customer request, a super heavy crane with our most advanced control system features, designed to carry out demanding and challenging heavy lifts in the most effective way. Operators and customers will appreciate how each part of the crane has been designed to excel, from a precision, safety and speed point of view,” says Marcel Boxem, Director, Global Product Management, Loader Cranes Heavy & Super Heavy, Hiab.
BPW’s idem telematics expands cargofleet 3 portal
Market leader BPW’s idem telematics has now made it possible for hauliers to manage transport data relating to specific trips and orders themselves and decide which specific end customers to forward it to.
Featured at the show, the telematics portal cargofleet 3 enables trip- and order-related data management for the first time. Trip data can either be entered directly in the portal or transferred from an external transport management system. For each individual trip, the haulier can operatively monitor the transport and specifically forward data to the shipper or other partners – right down to the continuously updated estimated time of arrival and individually selected tracking information. In addition, trip-specific temperature reports and consumption calculations as well as many other data can also be specifically evaluated and forwarded as the haulier pleases. However, more service and more control doesn’t mean more work – on the contrary: the cargofleet 3 portal enables data evaluation to be configured automatically. This means that alarms can be set automatically for each individual trip (e.g. geofencing and temperature alarms). The cargofleet 3 portal is an open system that functions independently of vehicle manufacturers’ systems. Jens Zeller, CEO of idem telematics, states: “By networking vehicle, driver and freight, the vehicle operator is able to more efficiently organise transport and significantly expand their range of services. Nevertheless, it is still crucial that vehicle operators retain full sovereignty over their data and do not become dependent on third-party systems. With cargofleet 3, we simultaneously strengthen the haulier’s service capabilities and data sovereignty. That’s our contribution to the ‘Internet of Transport’.”
In conversation with: VOLTA TRUCKS CEO ESSA AL-SALEH
Volta Trucks certainly made an impact at the IAA show Germany where Export & Freight’s Garfield Harrison caught up with Essa Al-Saleh, the manufacturer’s Chief Executive Officer.
Essa joined the company as Chairman of the Board of Directors in September 2020, and taking on the role as Chief Executive Officer in April 2021, having previously spent 13 years with Agility Logistics as President and CEO. During that time, Agility grew from a one-country operation with 300 employees and $150m in revenue to a global freight and logistics business operating in over 100 countries with 18,000 employees and $4bn in revenue. In total, Essa has over 20 years’ experience successfully leading and scaling logistics businesses to create global networks with single operating platforms and common cultures and his time so far at Volta Trucks has been more than productive. At the IAA, Volta Trucks presented a prototype Volta Zero, the world’s first purpose-built full-electric 16-tonne vehicle designed for urban logistics, reducing the environmental impact of freight deliveries in city centres. Also planned are 7.5- and 12-tonne models which will sit alongside the 16-tonne vehicle that’s currently engaged in extensive testing ahead of the first customer use later this year - and an 18-tonne vehicle will also start production in mid-2023. Designed from the ground up with an operating pure-electric range of 150 – 200 kms (95 – 125 miles), the Volta Zero will eliminate an estimated 1.2m tonnes of CO2 by 2025, the equivalent annual CO2 usage of 170,000 houses. The Volta Zero benefits from an optimised load-carrying capacity, allowing operators to consolidate the same amount of goods into fewer delivery vehicles. This means that just one Volta Zero can remove up to five smaller trucks or vans from the roads, reducing congestion on city streets and improving air quality for all. “For the launch of the range we are focusing primarily on six major cities in Europe, including Paris, London and Madrid,” Essa told us. “Going forward then, we will continue to expand across Europe; we want to come to the market at speed and at scale, as the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow at pace. In Paris, for example, they intend to ban diesel vehicles completely by 2024, so there is an urgency to offer a sustainable and safe alternative solution.” So what plans does Volta have for the Irish market, namely Belfast and Dublin? “Those cities will eventually be covered, too, but first we need to ensure we can not only deliver, but can also provide a service network for our customers, and that will include both the north and south of Ireland,” says Essa. “That said, at this stage we have no plans to set up any distributors in Ireland as we intend to sell directly into all our core markets where our sales teams are actively seeking customers, and that will include Ireland.” He adds: “In terms of targeting customers, we will be initially focusing on retailers, consumer good suppliers, logistics and rental companies, more on the commercial side, less so Local Authorities and Local Councils.” Safety is at the heart of Volta Trucks, with the manufacturer’s ambition of producing the safest trucks for cities where statistics show that, in London for example, 26% of pedestrian fatalities and 78% of cyclist deaths involve a truck, yet trucks only account for 4% of road miles. The Volta Zero was designed for electric from the outset, which facilitates a step-change in vehicle, driver and pedestrian safety. Thanks to the removal of the internal combustion engine, the operator of a Volta Zero sits in a central driving position, with a much lower seat height than a conventional truck. This combination, plus a glass house-style cab design, gives the driver a wide 220-degree field of visibility, minimising dangerous blind spots.
SAIC Maxus Makes its Debut
SAIC MAXUS made an electrifying debut, showcasing its latest line-up of electric vehicles, including one of its newest additions, the MIFA 9, the world’s first, full-size luxury pure electric MPV.
MAXUS showcased five of its premium electric vehicles. The impressive line-up included the brand’s popular eLCVs the eDELIVER 3 and larger eDELIVER 9, the MAXUS MIFA 9 (MPV), the T90 EV (electric pickup) as well as SAIC’s latest project, the MAXUS Electric Light Truck. Bringing the MAXUS brand to a whole new audience, MAXUS MIFA 9 offers a range of up to 595km / 369 miles (WLTP City) on a single charge. With a body size of 5,270 x 2,000 x 1,840mm, the seven- seater display model is a high spec vehicle boasting the industry’s first intelligent driving housekeeper, which automatically recognises driving style through data and scene driving. MIFA 9 is available to order now, with delivery in Q1 2023. MAXUS also showcased its allnew electric pick up with a battery pack of 88.5kwh. Perfect for both on and off-road driving, the MAXUS T90EV is equipped with a high-level spec and a contemporary and stylish interior. With a range of 330km (WLTP range combined) and a payload of 1 tonne, the visually sporty exterior is complemented by a modern interior with a 10.25inch digital touch screen instrument cluster providing a minimalist look. The T90EV is roomy thanks to a neat dashboard design and floor console, making more room for both occupants and storage. Also making its European debut was MAXUS’ all-new Electric Light Truck with a driving range of up to 213km (full load comprehensive condition). The currently named EH300 Electric Light Truck features a three-seater single cabin, with a GVW of 7490Kg. With a 127.74KWH CATL Lithium battery onboard, the vehicle will have a maximum speed of 90km/h, a peak power of 60/110Kw and a peak torque of 635/1200Nm. The new MAXUS vehicle will also have a maximum charging power of 102Kw for a DC charge and a 22Kw for an AC charge. Charging times will vary, with a DC charge taking 1.5 hours and an AC charge taking 11 hours.
Tevva unveils19-tonne hydrogen electric truck
Tevva has officially launched in mainland Europe and has unveiled a 19-tonne hydrogen electric truck enabling it to target decarbonisation of the entire medium-duty truck segment.
The truck is expected to have a range of up to 500km depending on the number of hydrogen cylinders specified, which can be refilled in 10 minutes. Tevva is pioneering a practical hydrogen fuel cell application that is unique to medium-duty trucks. By adding a hydrogen fuel cell range extender that replenishes the battery throughout the day, Tevva has created zero-emission urban trucks that eliminate range anxiety and can replace diesel trucks on all routes. The dual energy system also futureproofs Tevva and its customers as Europe transitions away from fossil fuels and looks to decarbonise the transportation sector. Tevva believes hydrogen has strong potential to be a key part of the renewable energy mix for commercial transportation in Europe. Major European governments, like Germany, France and the UK, have all committed to hydrogen strategies resulting in significant inward investment.
Carrier Transicold Demonstrates New Vector Concept
In another demonstration of its commitment to electric and sustainable temperature-controlled transport solutions, Carrier Transicold unveiled its first trailer concept powered by a dedicated hydrogen fuel cell.
The fuel cell system was specifically developed to integrate within the chassis of the Vector® transport refrigeration unit (TRU). The system delivers zero direct emissions without a reduction in performance or refrigeration capacity. Developed in close cooperation with Bosch and PowerCell Sweden AB, the new hydrogen fuel cell technology will be coupled with Carrier Transicold’s Vector HE 19 trailer unit. Central to the innovative new system is the integration of the Bosch 48-volt automotive battery, which directly interfaces the fuel cell with the refrigeration unit, removing the need for a standalone engine or a separately mounted buffer battery system. The hydrogen fuel cell technology delivers the same level of autonomy as existing diesel engines used in the standard Vector units. By using a hydrogen fuel cell system, customers can maintain operations with the legacy products, but without any of the associated emissions. The new fuel cell system is powered by hydrogen tanks coupled with an electric power distribution unit (PDU). The PDU is used to convert the direct current provided by the fuel cell into the alternating current needed to operate the refrigeration unit. The refilling time for the new concept is equivalent to a standard diesel engine and, depending on the tank size, can also achieve a similar autonomy range.
Thermo King Expands its Vehicle-Powered Portfolio with New VX-Series Units
Thermo King featured the brand new VX-Series vehicle-powered refrigeration units. The new models with high capacities expand the Thermo King portfolio for vans and trucks, introducing a more compact design to fit rooftop applications and new compressor technology to maximise the cooling performance.
The VX-Series has a significantly reduced overall envelope and half the weight of the predecessor units enabling customers to carry up to 80 kg more payload during each delivery route. Significantly reduced dimensions allow the unit to be mounted on the roof of the vehicle, something that was not possible in the past with transport refrigeration units (TRU)with these cooling capacities. The new outline of the units includes modern aerodynamic and aesthetic vehicle designs. The VX-Series models also feature new hermetic compressor technology, which increases the overall efficiency, lowers noise and vibration levels, and reduces refrigerant charge for more environmentally friendly operations. The new compressor technology makes the units also compatible with battery-powered applications. “With the new VX-Series units we are expanding our vehicle-powered portfolio introducing completely new TRU architecture in this market segment,” said Graham Wells, vehicle-powered truck product manager for Thermo King in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). “New and durable design, reduced dimensions and weight, and increased cooling capacities of the VX-Series offer our customers new opportunities to successfully manage and operate their delivery fleet. The VX- Series will deliver exceptional performance even in extreme high and low ambient conditions, and will be easier to service, saving time thanks to improved accessibility.” Designed for vehicles between 3.5 to 7.5 tonnes, the new VX-Series complete the cooling capacity offering of the Thermo King compressor driven portfolio of transport refrigeration units. The V-400Xis a new option in the range offering customers 4kW of cooling capacity, while the V-500X and V-600X replace the incumbent V-500 and V-600 models increasing cooling capacity of the predecessor units to 5.5kW and 6.5kW respectively.
Thermo King Premieres the E-Series
Thermo King unveiled the new fully electric E-Series refrigeration units for electric light commercial vehicles. The new E-Series were designed from the ground up specifically for battery-powered electric vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes.
The new E-Series units are connected and powered directly by the vehicle’s battery. To deliver optimal temperature-control performance with reduced energy consumption, the new E-Series features patented, customdesigned inverter technology and a powerful variable-speed hermetic refrigeration compressor. The patented control and power management system, intelligently optimizes supply and demand of power in real time, minimising the impact on the vehicle’s battery when the vehicle is on route or off on a delivery. The completely new design and architecture of the E-Series offers LCV operators the benefits of advanced electric vehicle drive technology with performance previously unattainable in units of this type. The E-Series will be available for both single and multi-temperature transport with both cooling and heating modes to fit customers’ multiple application needs. The profile design of the new E-Series makes it versatile and easy to install on panel vans, chassis cab trucks and other types of vehicle conversions.
Knorr-Bremse emerges as leading solutions provider
How systematically is Knorr-Bremse, the global market leader for braking systems and other rail and commercial vehicle systems, pursuing the development of Highly Automated Driving (HAD) systems? The answer is: very.
By preference, HAD development projects take the form of partnerships with specialists. Tried and tested expertise in vehicle dynamics (including driver assistance and high-availability braking and steering systems) puts Knorr-Bremse in an ideal position to support such projects. To demonstrate these strategies and technologies, accompanied by virtual presentations, Knorr-Bremse invited visitors to the company’s exhibition booth at IAA. Bernd Spies, Member of the Executive Board of Knorr-Bremse AG and responsible for the Commercial Vehicle Systems division, regards the Automated Driving industry trend as one of the top development priorities for OEMs. He is very familiar with Knorr-Bremse’s turnkey systems solutions: “As a technology leader in driver assistance systems, including brake control and many others, Knorr-Bremse has an absolute understanding of the specific vehicle dynamics of commercial vehicles. This has resulted in a broad range of driver assistance solutions, right through to the systems that make Highly Automated Driving possible. This focus on innovation is firmly embedded in our R&D roadmap, making us the ideal systems partner for Highly Automated Driving development programs.” With deep-rooted systems expertise in hardware and software solutions for safetycritical systems, Knorr-Bremse is now also the perfect partner for developing reliable ADAS that can consistently and accurately detect and analyse real-time traffic conditions. These assistance systems are specifically intended for use in commercial vehicles. With this portfolio of driver assistance solutions, Knorr- Bremse is the preferred partner of firms seeking to comply with the EU General Safety Regulation (GSR) and other industry standards. By reducing the total cost of ownership, Highly Automated Driving represents a genuine business case for fleet operators. As a leading supplier of vehicle dynamics systems, Knorr-Bremse is the ideal partner for commercial vehicle manufacturers and AI firms seeking to further develop Highly Automated Driving (HAD, SAE Level 4 and up) and equip truck/trailer combinations with the necessary systems.
Continental Showcases Three Tyre Solutions
Continental showcased a range of highly innovative tyre solutions aimed at improving the sustainability of passenger and goods transport over short and long distances.
With the Conti Urban, for example, the tyre manufacturer premieres a concept tyre specially designed for the electrified bus and delivery traffic of the future. The share of renewable and recycled materials in this prototype, which is already approved for road use and could soon enter a testing phase with customers, is almost 50 percent. After just one retread, this figure increases to more than 90 percent. The concept tyre has also been specially noise-level-optimised. Continental is convinced that greater sustainability is essential in the urban passenger and goods traffic sector. Due in particular to the ongoing increase in demand for urban passenger and goods transport, the number of electrified city buses being registered is also rising. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), the number of new registrations for electric buses within the European Union continued to increase significantly in 2021, with their market share rising that year to 10.6 percent. In the same period, electric buses already accounted for more than 30 percent of new bus registrations in the European Union. Market studies predict annual growth rates of up to 35 percent from 2021 through to 2025. The tyre manufacturer also premiered a new tyre prototype specially designed for a new trailer concept, featuring a fully electric drive axle. Continental is the exclusive development partner for this innovative trailer from Trailer Dynamics, which is designed to hybridize truck tractor units by means of a battery-powered trailer and so reduces their CO2 emissions. With the EfficientPro Gen 3+, the premium tyre manufacturer presents an upgrade to its EfficientPro longdistance tyre, which is well known in the original equipment business for trucks. Its rolling resistance has been specially optimised, making it very energy efficient.
Webfleet launches compact PRO driver terminal
For the first time, telematics provider Webfleet was exhibiting together with its parent company Bridgestone to launch Fleetcare, an integrated solution, which is bundling Bridgestone´s tyre solutions and Webfleet´s fleet management solution designed to fast forward business for fleets.
At the show, Webfleet launched a new compact PRO driver terminal, a new addition to its PRO range. Like a handheld computer, it is designed to support drivers in their tasks, and like a smartphone, it is built for ease and accessibility. This PRO driver terminalis a complete end-toend order management solution. Ready for business right out of the box. Visitors were able to see the first demo of the new compact PRO driver terminal, which will be available across Europe in Q4 2022. Webfleet also presented its OptiDrive solution tailored for trucks. Webfleet OptiDrive is a complete approach to help drivers adapt to a more ‘responsible’ driving style. It provides valuable insights to both the fleet manager and the driver – delivering direct feedback to drivers before, during and after their trip. Responsible driving helps improve driver safety, lower fuel consumption, maintenance, and insurance premiums, reducing the total costs of vehicle ownership. Meanwhile, launching in Spring 2023, Cold Chain is a dedicated temperature monitoring solution within Webfleet that supports operators in protecting temperature sensitive products. With real time visibility into temperature status and reports into critical temperature events, operators can meet end customer proof-of-delivery expectations and regulatory standards. High value loads are given extra protection with real-time alerting to breaches in max/min thresholds. Operators can quickly understand the severity and cause of problems, and take action to avoid rejected loads.
Durite Showcases its Latest Camera and Safety Technology
Vehicle safety and camera experts Durite showcased their latest technology; the company has been supplying vehicle cameras for more than 20 years and has supplied more than 50,000 systems to fleets. The company also provides a comprehensive range of vehicle safety products for fleet operators.
John Nobbs of Durite said: “In the UK, Durite is regarded as a trusted supplier and innovative leader in vehicle safety for commercial fleet. Our comprehensive offering enables commercial fleet operators to make Durite their safety partner of choice.” Visitors to the IAA saw Durite’s Blind Spot Detection System with integrated GPS speed trigger and on-screen display. This uses a traffic light warning system to alert the driver to vulnerable road users who are close to the vehicle. It also provides the specific location of the road user, making it especially relevant for fleets with urban delivery and collection operations. Durite’s vehicle camera systems now integrate with Webfleet telematics, meaning that fleet managers can remotely access camera footage from the Webfleet portal. This includes the ability to download first notification of loss (FNOL) videos. John Nobbs added: “Seamless integration with Webfleet gives fleet managers an enhanced view of driver behaviour and road traffic incidents. It improves relationships with insurance companies and enables fleet operators to make more informed decisions about safety.” Durite is bringing its range of vehicle safety products to the European market against a backdrop of forthcoming safety regulations. “Across Europe, there is an ongoing drive to adopt cameras as a safety solution,” said John Nobbs. “Durite’s established range provides a flexible and cost-effective solution to keeping fleets safe and compliant.”
European premiere of FUSO’s Next Generation eCanter
FUSO has made several adjustments to the Next Generation eCanter. While the current electric truck was previously only available as a 7.49-tonner with a wheelbase of 3,400 millimetres, customers now have a choice of six wheelbases between 2,500 and 4,750 millimetres and a permissible gross vehicle weight of 4.25 to 8.55 tonnes. The load capacity of the chassis is up to 5.0tonnes.
The Next Generation eCanter is powered either by a 110 kW (150 hp) electric motor in variants with gross weights of 4.25 and 6.0tonnes, or a 129 kW (180 hp) electric motor in variants with gross weights of 7.49 and 8.55 tonnes. This optimised driveline delivers 430 Nm of torque; the maximum speed is 89 km/h. The batteries use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cell technology. These are characterised above all by a long service life and more usable energy. The battery pack in the S variant has a nominal capacity of 41 kWh and enables a range of up to 70 kilometres. In the M variant, the nominal capacity is 83 kWh and the range is up to 140 kilometres. The L variant, as the most powerful package, offers a nominal capacity of 124 kWh and a range of up to 200 kilometres. This is far more than the distance usually covered per day in light distribution traffic. Numerous features and devices ensure a high level of comfort for the driver and road safety for all involved. Standard highlights include the multifunction steering wheel with buttons for controlling the fully digital LCD instrument cluster, LED headlights that are 30% brighter than halogen models for increased visibility, the Autolight function for controlling the headlights depending on lighting conditions, and Intelligent Highbeam Assist. In terms of safety, the batteries are mounted under the vehicle’s chassis frame with a highly rigid steel bracket that also serves as impact protection for the battery in the event of a frontal or side crash. In the event of an accident, a crash sensor automatically deactivates the high-voltage system. To ensure the vehicle is more easily heard by pedestrians or cyclists, for example, the Next Generation eCanter is equipped with an external Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) as standard. For greater safety when turning left, Active Side Guard Assist is also fitted as standard. In addition, the fifthgeneration Active Brake Assist with pedestrian detection, which is also standard, can reduce the risk of a collision in longitudinal traffic.
