ZF, a leading automotive technology company, has unveiled its advanced AxTrax 2 LF electric portal axle, specifically crafted for low-floor city buses, at Busworld 2023 in Brussels. This new product embodies ZF’s commitment to furthering the electrification of public transport.
Why It Matters
The push towards eco-friendly and sustainable public transportation solutions is growing. ZF’s newest e-Mobility offering, the AxTrax 2 LF, is poised to play a significant role in the commercial vehicle industry’s shift towards greener and more sustainable future solutions. Series production for this innovative electric portal axle is scheduled to begin in 2025.
Key Points
- Innovative Design: AxTrax 2 LF boasts a compact, lightweight system featuring an integrated electric wheel hub drive.
- Performance Optimized: Built on ZF Group’s proprietary electric drive platform, the axle provides enhanced performance and efficiency across various bus types: battery electric, fuel cell, and trolley buses.
- Comprehensive Package: This new axle includes two independent silicon carbide (SiC) inverters and a high-performance electric control unit, resulting in a comprehensive e-drive system for city buses.
- Space-Efficient: Its compact design maximizes space for passengers or batteries, facilitating passenger-centric bus design concepts.
- Compatibility: Replacing the previous AxTrax AVE, the new model aligns seamlessly with ZF’s existing air suspension and wheel-end solutions.
- Software Excellence: Benefitting from ZF’s vast experience, the axle features cutting-edge functions like axle condition monitoring and cybersecurity.
- Power Options: Available in two versions, it can output continuous power of either 260 kW or 360 kW, with peak torques of 22,700 Nm and 37,300 Nm, respectively.
- Efficiency: The new design offers up to 10% energy savings compared to its predecessor, optimized for the unique requirements of city-bus routes, and features a new oil cooling system for increased efficiency.
Bottom Line
ZF’s AxTrax 2 LF is a game-changer in the realm of public transportation. It represents a leap in technology and commitment toward creating sustainable solutions, reinforcing ZF’s position as a leader in the transition to zero-emission commercial vehicles. As cities worldwide look for more environmentally-friendly transport solutions, ZF’s innovative products are poised to be at the forefront of this transformation.
