Specializing in powertrain technology and smart system solutions, ZF demonstrated at Bauma Munich that the group is a strong partner in meeting these demands. With propulsion systems for higher efficiency as well as future-proof driveline solutions in the field of electrification and alternative fuels, ZF contributes to reduced emissions, higher productivity and a higher degree of safety on construction sites. The fully compatible intelligent system solutions developed by ZF are the company's powerful response to the challenges facing the industry today more than ever before.
Electrification – zero emissions and maximum performance
The eTRAC electric drive system meets all performance and productivity expectations found in conventional powertrains and combines them with the extensive benefits and opportunities offered by electric systems. Thanks to its modular design, this new electric central drive series can be easily adapted to a variety of vehicle applications.
- Zero emissions without sacrificing performance
- low noise level
- Efficient electrical components
- Robust and reliable mechanical drivetrain
- Compact installation space
E-mobility solutions for compact vehicles such as loaders, job site dumpers or telehandlers are the first to enter the construction equipment market, especially in urban or emissions-regulated areas. The eTRAC drivetrain system with the 48/96/650 volt e-motor series developed by ZF provides the emission-free driving required. The Group also acts as a system supplier. It not only provides electric propulsion, but also offers a combination of front and rear axles, inverters and an eDCU (Electric Ride Control Unit). This best-in-class solution achieves the same output as a conventional drivetrain without sacrificing performance factors such as traction and top speed.
A newly launched system for mobile excavators consists of a 2-speed powershift transmission, electric motor and inverter. Scalable up to 850 Nm peak torque and 80 kW continuous power. The electric central drive system eCD50, eCD70 and eCD90 are available in three power classes to cover different vehicle sizes in targeted applications. Electric central drives can be easily adapted to a variety of vehicle applications, such as backhoe loaders, telehandlers or forestry equipment. ZF also offers ePTO to meet customers' demands for traction drive only, for example to maintain working hydraulics.
To complement its range of electric drives for larger construction vehicles, ZF offers the eTRAC eCD110-210 series for medium wheel loaders, consisting of an electromechanical powershift transmission and an e-motor and ePTO for traction. An electric drive control unit completes the system for overall system performance and power management. With an operating voltage of 650 V, the system can be scaled up to 120 kW of continuous power; ePTO ranges from 30 to 70 kW of continuous power. Thanks to its modular design, the system can also be integrated into various other vehicle applications and can be driven independently of the power supply. The company's solutions are suitable for both battery electric vehicles and fuel cell battery electric vehicles, which will also play a major role in the future of construction machinery.
Ready for decarbonisation with highest efficiency – ZF cPOWER
In addition to future-oriented e-mobility solutions, when it comes to decarbonizing construction equipment, a shift to low-carbon fuels is observed in the market. Different energy sources are possible, depending on the size of the vehicle and the energy demand. Batteries are a viable source for electric compact and medium-sized vehicles, while alternative fuels are a promising power source for reducing the CO2 footprint for medium and large-sized vehicles.
Efficiency is expected to play an even more important role in the future. This is due, on the one hand, to the ever-increasing energy costs, and on the other hand, the lower energy density of alternative fuels, which require higher storage volumes.
Despite all the different power sources that have entered the market recently – hydrogen, eFuels or bio-diesel for example – conventional drives with powershift and power split transmission will remain the backbone of the vehicle's system architecture.
With the highly efficient cPOWER CVT technology alongside the ERGOPOWER powershift transmission, ZF can provide the right drivetrain technology regardless of the power source.
Considering the calls for sustainability, fuel savings of up to 15% are already possible with the hydrodynamic technology ZF ERGOPOWER. To meet increasing demands for reduced fuel consumption and higher productivity, ZF introduced cPOWER, a fully power split CVT technology. This provides fuel savings of up to 25% compared to standard ERGOPOWER drives. Fuel savings are further increased by 5% if cPOWER is combined with the ZF EFFICIENCY PACKAGE.
Smart Construction – environmental perception
Ideally, the future of construction should not only be climate neutral, but also operate safely and efficiently. To achieve this, ZF is already developing future-oriented system solutions for smart construction sites. Based on all activities in the passenger car and commercial vehicle segment, a broad portfolio of Know-How and products can be reused for off-highway vehicle applications. Radar-based environmental perception is just one example to ensure safe driving.
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