BPW’s innovative ePower generator axle is setting new standards in the logistics industry by enhancing the efficiency of temperature-controlled transport. Designed to deliver cost-effective, sustainable, and quieter solutions, the ePower system promises a breakthrough in transport cooling technology.
Following an extensive testing phase covering over 350,000 kilometers, BPW’s ePower has demonstrated exceptional performance, convincing even the most skeptical of its economic benefits. This generator axle, developed by BPW Bergische Achsen KG, combines advanced engineering with robust design to meet the demands of modern refrigerated logistics.
The ePower generator axle integrates seamlessly into the trailer’s unsprung mass, generating electricity for emission-free cooling while on the move. Unlike conventional systems, it features two generators working in tandem, eliminating the inefficiencies associated with energy-sapping differentials. This design ensures high efficiency, performance, and safety even under harsh operating conditions.
One of the standout features of the ePower system is its intelligent recuperation control. This technology adapts to varying driving conditions, activating at speeds as low as 15 km/h and prioritizing energy recovery during braking and downhill driving. This reduces the strain on the truck’s engine and brakes, and ensures that electricity is generated even in towing mode.
BPW’s commitment to innovation extends to rigorous testing and collaboration with over ten leading European refrigerated logistics companies and trailer manufacturers. The system’s performance has been validated through extensive trials across European and South African roads, demonstrating its capability to deliver continuous cooling with energy generated from stop-and-go traffic and downhill driving. Notably, one test trailer maintained cooling for 20 weeks without the need for stationary intermediate charging, thanks to the system’s efficient battery management.
The ePower generator axle not only promises substantial operational savings but also integrates seamlessly into existing logistics processes and fleet management. The complete system, including the refrigeration unit and battery packs, is designed to be cost-effective, with procurement costs amortized over the trailer’s service life. For urban applications, the combination of ePower with a purely electric cooling system is economically optimal, while a diesel-electric hybrid unit remains recommended for mixed traffic scenarios. For long-distance operations, larger batteries might be necessary, though diesel-powered units still offer a more economical solution in these cases.
In summary, BPW’s ePower generator axle represents a significant advancement in refrigerated transport, combining cost-effectiveness with environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.
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