A fully integrated electric powertrain system designed to fit inside a standard frame along the axles of commercial trucks, the AXE Series features electric motors, a two-speed gearbox, oil coolers and pumps. The offering also includes power electronics for a complete powertrain solution, the company says.
The company says the Allison AXE Series has a 1 million-mile design life for medium- and heavy-duty trucks. The system integrates one or two high-speed electric motors and a multi-speed transmission, eliminating the need for additional driveshafts and support structures. A dual-motor axle has a continuous power of 536 horsepower (400 kilowatts) and peak output power of 738 horsepower (550 kilowatts).
A tandem axle configuration also is available for these vehicles. The system can handle 100 percent torque in regenerative braking. The complete integration of the AXE Series delivers increased efficiency and best-in-class continuous power through superior internal cooling, the company says.
The AXE Series electric powertrain will be integrated in Peterbilt’s Model 579EV electric Class 8 truck for evaluation and testing.
“Allison is pleased to be building upon its legacy of innovation and believe this product will be a significant step in taking the industry to the next level of electrification,” says David S. Graziosi, Allison Transmission president and CEO. “We value this opportunity to work with an industry leader.”
Allison also introduced its new ABE Series, the first e-axle advanced ultra-low floor electric bus powertrain system in the market, according to the company.
The ABE Series integrates dual electric motors, a single- or multi-speed gearbox (depending on e-axle model), oil coolers, pumps and power electronics into a bolt-in system that replaces the entire traditional powertrain within the existing frame. It meets the power and space demands of the transit bus industry, including heavy double-decker, articulated and 3-door buses, the company says.
The Allison ABE Series can operate without restrictions at regular highway speeds and on all allowable grades. The system can handle 100 percent torque in regenerative braking. With an axle rating up to 28,660 lb. (13 tons), the system provides more power and torque than other e-powertrain system in its class, Allision says.
With a dual motor, it has continuous axle output power of 536 horsepower (400 kilowatts) and peak output power of 738 horsepower (550 kilowatts). A single speed e-axle option also is available. Its proprietary cooling allows for continuous motor power and allows the vehicle to run closer to peak power for longer durations, the company says.
The bolt-in ABE Series fits existing bus frames and suspensions, creating more space for battery packs and other critical electric vehicle components, the company says. The standard system is configured for a 28-in. (700-mm) walk through, but has an optional 39-in. (1,000-mm) configuration. This makes the system applicable for 12-meter low-floor city and double-decker buses, 18-meter articulated buses and 3-door buses.
