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Range Energy, a leader in trailer electrification technology, has successfully concluded comprehensive vehicle dynamics and stability testing for its eTrailer System. The evaluations, conducted at the Transportation Research Center Inc. (TRC), North America’s premier independent mobility testing facility, confirmed the system’s ability to improve safety and performance under aggressive driving conditions, particularly those that increase the risk of rollovers. This recent phase of testing builds upon the company’s rigorous winter trials, further validating the system’s control, performance, and safety on dry and wet pavement surfaces.
Key Highlights
- Range Energy completed over 400 dynamic maneuvers at the Transportation Research Center Inc. (TRC) to test its eTrailer System.
- Testing confirmed the system effectively mitigates rollover risk, reducing lateral force by up to 25 percent compared to conventional semi-trucks.
- The eTrailer System is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing diesel and electric semi-trucks without requiring modifications to the tractor.
- The system intelligently uses regenerative braking to enhance stability and control during critical maneuvers like J-turns and double lane changes.
Rigorous Dynamics and Stability Testing
To validate the performance and safety of its electrified trailer system, Range Energy undertook an extensive testing protocol at the TRC. The tests focused on evaluating the system under highly dynamic conditions, utilizing aggressive maneuvers such as J-turns and double lane changes. To ensure safety during these extreme tests, the trailer was equipped with outriggers and anti-jackknife cables to prevent a full tip-over.
The comprehensive evaluation involved over 400 dynamic maneuvers, which were performed at various speeds and with different payloads and tractor configurations. In addition to testing on dry pavement, the maneuvers were replicated on wet surfaces to assess the eAxle’s traction control during straight-line acceleration and braking. The goal was to ensure the Range system integrates perfectly with standard truck braking and stability systems, improving performance in any potential real-world scenario.
Proven Improvements in Safety and Control
The results from the dynamic testing demonstrated significant safety improvements over conventional semi-trailers. In critical maneuvers, the Range eTrailer System intelligently engaged its regenerative braking feature earlier than standard systems. This action gently slowed the vehicle, reducing lateral force by up to 25 percent. Consequently, a driver can navigate the same turn at the same speed with greater safety, significantly lowering the risk of losing control or experiencing a rollover.
“Testing under extreme conditions and with aggressive maneuvers is critical to prove the intelligence and reliability of our control systems in real-world conditions,” said Kyle Foley, Head of Engineering at Range Energy. “From fine-tuning traction control and delivering precise stability interventions through regenerative braking, to ensuring seamless compatibility with today’s truck brake systems, every element is designed to perform when it matters most.” This focus on testing is about building trust and proving the system’s reliability for moving essential goods.
Advanced, Compatible, and Sustainable Design
Range Energy’s eTrailer System is engineered for broad compatibility, designed to work with a variety of tow vehicles, including both diesel and electric semi-trucks. A key feature is that it requires no modification to the tractor, allowing for easy and fast installation. This seamless integration provides a practical and scalable path for fleets to enhance efficiency, safety, and vehicle dynamics.
Beyond safety, the system provides a sustainable solution for the commercial trucking industry. It helps fleets achieve fuel savings and lower emissions while also supplying electric power for auxiliary components such as lift gates and refrigerated units. By offering a system that improves safety and delivers cost savings, Range Energy is supporting the future of cleaner and more efficient freight transportation. For more information, visit Range Energy.
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