Ettractive has launched its Next Generation Truck Program, offering the opportunity for developers of new electrification technology to be part of a focused vehicle marketing and demonstration program in the North American market.
“There is such a high quantity and quality of emerging technology that is right on the fringes of the mainstream. With this program, we are actively seeking out those companies who are developing this tech and giving them an opportunity to be part of this North American market truck,” says Ettractive Chief Technology Officer Pat Troy.
With continual advancements in the market, Ettractive will provide a platform for these technologies aboard a demonstration vehicle which seeks to showcase the latest and greatest products and services. During the program, Ettractive will integrate each of the selected products into a class 4-6 truck which will visit each of the major truck and fleet trade shows in the U.S. and Canada in late 2022 and 2023. The truck will be available for ride-and-drive events and individually scheduled demonstrations for the potential customers of the technology suppliers, with all logistics facilitated by Ettractive, the company says.
“We’re providing a platform to assemble and integrate all of this tech together on one vehicle and show the possibilities of electric trucking at the leading edge of the industry. Ettractive’s integration capability also will be on display, as we integrate and optimize the various advancements for this vehicle,” says Patrick Thompson, business development leader, Ettractive.
The Next Generation Truck Program is currently soliciting new technologies from around the globe which can push the boundaries of large vehicle electrification. Developers of battery, charging and propulsion technology are of particular interest to the program, including new cell chemistries and multi-speed transmissions or e-axles. Auxiliary systems such as power steering, HVAC, thermal management and braking also represent big opportunities for increases in efficiency of commercial electric vehicles.
Ettractive will provide all mechanical, electrical and digital integration of the selected system into a North American market truck at its R&D center in Windsor, Ontario. The timeline for the program will be contingent on delivery timelines from the selected parties. Tech selection will be completed by Q1 2022.
