ZF unveils next generation e-axle AxTrax 2. Also available in 2-drives variant

At the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, ZF premiered its all-new AxTrax 2 electric axle platform. Series production of AxTrax 2 is planned to begin in Europe in late 2024 and in the U.S. in 2025, ZF states. What is very interesting, it will be offered in two variants: AxTrax 2 with one e-drive and AxTrax 2 dual with two integrated e-drives, being the latter a real news in ZF offer (and a rarity in the e-bus segment, with just Volvo Buses so far mounting on the 7900 Electric a 2-drive transmission).

It is worth mentioning that the AxTrax has its roots in 2015, when it was launched for the first time as AVE130. It has so far established itself as one of the leading solution for e-buses (adopted by Solaris, Daimler Buses, Ebusco and many others…).

ZF AxTrax 2 in two variants

The integrated and modular e-powertrain system is addressed to light, medium and heavy-duty commercial vehicles.

The group points out that AxTrax 2 “is an axle-based, fully integrated system, featuring a compact design to help maximize the available space for batteries and enhance manufacturer’s design flexibility for future vehicle concepts. AxTrax 2 can be fully synchronized with key vehicle functions, including braking, ADAS and automated driving systems, to help enhance vehicle safety and efficiency. It also enables advanced digital and telematics systems via CAN bus to communicate and share e-axle system information”.

AxTrax 2 platform is offered in two variants: AxTrax 2 with one e-drive and AxTrax 2 dual with two integrated e-drives. AxTrax 2 will cover class 5-7 commercial vehicles with a single e-axle in a 4×2 or 6×2 or even up to class 8 with two e-axles in 6×4 configuration.

Both models of AxTrax 2 are designed to replace the engine, transmission, drive shaft, differential and conventional axle to electrify a commercial vehicle.

A portfolio of solutions supporting the business case for electrified commercial vehicles

“Customers are under tremendous pressure to implement zero emission technology, and our e-mobility kit allows them to electrify existing platforms, and develop purpose-built platforms, delivering superior total cost of ownership,” said Julien Plenchette, senior vice president, Americas, Commercial Vehicle Solutions, ZF Group. “AxTrax 2 is a technology we are incredibly proud of and have been looking forward to offering to the North American market for quite some time. It is an exciting day to bring a portfolio of solutions to customers that supports the business case for electrified commercial vehicles.”

“ZF has more than 100 years of experience in the global commercial vehicle industry and 30 years in electric driveline technology. These products and designs reap the benefits of our extensive experience in vehicle electrification as well as high volume manufacture of electrification products,” explained Christian Feldhaus, director of Commercial Vehicle Driveline Systems, Americas, ZF Group. “With products located in North America to support customers in this region, we can help ensure USMCA requirements are met.”