ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division has landed a multi-year contract with a leading Indian OEM for thousands of AxTrax 2 LF electric portal axles. The units will serve both India’s domestic market and global export channels, with first deliveries set for 2026.
Highlights
- Multi-year contract covers several thousand AxTrax 2 LF electric portal axles for an undisclosed Indian OEM
- 20 percent energy savings over the previous-generation axle reduce battery requirements and extend range
- 360 kW continuous power and 36,800 Nm peak torque from dual PSM hairpin motors and an 800 V SiC inverter
- First deliveries begin in 2026, supporting both Indian domestic transit and international markets
Integrated Low-Floor Architecture
The AxTrax 2 LF is a fully integrated low-floor axle that combines propulsion, braking, and suspension into a single compact package. This architecture frees up space for batteries and passengers. Additionally, the modular platform allows OEMs to simplify vehicle design and adapt to varied market needs.
Since its debut at the 2023 Busworld show, the system has set a new benchmark for electric bus drivetrain efficiency. Its 20 percent energy improvement over the predecessor helps operators lower total cost of ownership (TCO) by reducing battery size while extending vehicle range.
Performance Specifications
The axle’s powertrain uses dual PSM hairpin motors paired with an 800 V silicon carbide (SiC) inverter and advanced oil cooling. As a result, it delivers the following performance figures:
- Continuous power: up to 360 kW — double that of its predecessor at roughly the same weight
- Peak torque: 36,800 Nm
- Climbing ability: 25 percent grade for a 30-metric-ton articulated bus on a single driven axle
India Market and Global Demand
Andreas Moser, head of ZF’s CVS division and responsible for the India region, said the order reflects strong worldwide demand for zero-emission commercial vehicle technologies. In other words, the deal signals growing transit agency interest in electric drivetrain solutions that lower operating costs while meeting emissions targets.
India’s expanding urban transit networks represent a key growth market for battery-electric buses. Meanwhile, global export demand further underscores the AxTrax 2 LF’s relevance across diverse operating environments.
About ZF
ZF is a global mobility technology supplier serving passenger car, commercial vehicle, and industrial markets. The company employs approximately 161,600 people worldwide and reported €41.4 billion in sales for fiscal 2024. It operates 161 production locations across 30 countries. For more information, visit www.zf.com.
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