eAxles gain TRACTION

OEMs are developing and testing axles with integrated electric powertrains to electrify trucks of all sizes.

Development of electrified drivelines is rapidly ramping up at OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers. With a wide variety of vehicles suddenly in need of electrified drivelines capable of matching or surpassing the capabilities of the existing ICE powertrains, suppliers are providing an array of solutions to meet customer needs.

For the electrification of light- and medium-duty trucks, one of the technologies rapidly gaining interest is electric axle or eAxle. An eAxle is a traditional axle housing and differential incorporating an electric motor, an inverter and a thermal-management system. Most eAxles also are equipped with a multi-speed transmission for high- and low-torque demands. While the basic concept is similar across the industry, suppliers are taking varying approaches to put these axles on the roads depending on their target vehicle segment, required power output and desired vehicle range.