Trucking companies have abandoned a lot of mainstays from their industry in recent years.
Paper logbooks are now a thing of the past and have been replaced by electronic logging devices per a law passed in late 2017. Break times and many other aspects of the job are now regulated at the federal level rather than the state, with upcoming legislation expected to expand this power.
But one of the biggest and most talked-about aspects of trucking is the replacement of diesel engines with electric ones. This is done for multiple reasons – both economical and environmental in nature. While trucking companies can save big by curbing their diesel addiction, they can also leave a much smaller carbon footprint in the process.
Meritor is a global developer of truck drivetrain components and they’re bringing their expertise in vehicular electrical systems to the truck driving industry. Meritor recently discussed their new efforts, revealing information about the demand for efficient electrical components for vehicles as well as the future of this technology in trucking.
The launch of the Meritor Blue Horizon brand of technology will see the company working with TransPower. Together, they’ll develop advanced products that promote efficiency with a green basis. TransPower provides electric drive systems that are essentially turnkey in nature. Batteries with associated components, vehicle controls, and many accessories will all be provided through this partnership.
To develop a fully configured electronic vehicle that is capable of handling the duties of a commercial freight carrier, companies must be able to think like a commercial freight carrier. TransPower’s influence and expertise in commercial freight transport will help with this and ensure there aren’t any intricacies lost in translation.
The idea is to have systems that are already set up, meaning a carrier could essentially deliver a glider and get back a fully functional electric engine truck in return. That would make it easier for carriers to get green transportation solutions without having to expend too many resources.
The systems’ focus on flexibility means they could be useful in many different types of commercial trucks as well as many different regions. Meritor acknowledged modifications may need to be made depending on where the vehicles are.
A proof-of-concept with Peterbilt will begin this summer and will last a year. Testing out the systems in conventional trucks is a big step and will provide valuable data about how important it is to line out all the complexities and master the approach before announcing the systems for mainstream sale. Though there is a big demand for anyone who can provide valuable electrical powertrain systems for commercial trucks, the process can’t be rushed.
From standalone components to turnkey systems, there are many different solutions demanded by carriers throughout the field. For Meritor, the goal is to be an all-purpose resource freight companies can turn to when they need electric solutions. It will make green regulatory compliance much easier and can lead to some serious savings in the long-term.
