Research Projects - Vehicle Concepts and Design

Concept Elektro-Lkw im schweren Verteilerverkehr

The project "Concept ELV2" was launched at the beginning of October 2017. The goal of the project is the integration of an electric drivetrain in heavy-duty distribution traffic-applications. In view of stricter emission limits – especially in metropolitan areas – electric cargo transport vehicles should take over transport jobs from conventional trucks without any decrease of performance.

Daimler AG and the Institute for Automotive Engineering (ika) are processing the outlined work packages within the project. The whole project is separated in two sub-projects. One of the sub-projects is promoted by the BMUB, the second one by the BMWi. In the first sub-project named "Concept ELV2-Fleettest" Daimler AG will deliver 10 pilot-trucks to 10 customers from different industry sectors. Those trucks will be tested and analyzed. ika is directly participating the second sub-project which is named "Concept ELV2-technology development". In the course of the second sub-project, ika researches on and is developing drivetrain technologies and recharging infrastructure.

At ika, the project is processed by different business areas (Drivetrain, Electrics/Electronic, Vehicle Concepts and User Experience) in diverse work packages. The following six research focuses are considered at ika:

• Developing of a modular operating strategy – Generic energy management approach;
• Optimization and further development of the current e-axle concept;
• Research on an innovative and more efficient e-axle concept including building a prototype;
• Development and research on acceptance of a HMI-concept;
• Development of a platform to plan the deployment and the recharging infrastructure for e-trucks in metropolitan areas;
• Concept for the expandance of the electrification for long-distance traffic.

The improved drivetrains and operating strategies are intended to increase the efficiency and thus the range, as well as the acceptance and willingness to buy electrified commercial vehicles.