News: Microelectronics
2 May 2023
BAE Systems and Eaton co-developing electric drive for medium-duty commercial trucks
BAE Systems ─ which develops and services electric propulsion technology at its facilities in Endicott, New York, USA and Rochester, UK ─ is collaborating with intelligent power management company Eaton to develop electric vehicle (EV) technology solutions. Through a memorandum of understanding (MoU), the firms will initially offer a solution for the medium-duty commercial truck platforms market. A Class-7 pickup and delivery demonstration vehicle is already in development.
BAE Systems will incorporate its power-dense electric motor and silicon carbide (SiC)/gallium nitride (GaN) power electronics suite with Eaton’s MD 4-speed EV transmission to provide a comprehensive EV system for medium-duty vehicles, such as those used for a variety of pick-up and delivery applications. The complete solution is intended to provide original equipment manufacturers with a durable, high-performance, compact, efficient and optimized system with flexibility to work with multiple zero-emission platforms.
“Our complementary strengths and industry knowledge in providing clean transportation solutions will address a critical need for new, clean technology options for the global truck market,” says Steve Trichka, VP & general manager of Power & Propulsion Solutions at BAE Systems. “Together, BAE Systems and Eaton will enable electric drive systems that are efficient, modular and scalable,” he adds.
“Our medium duty 4-speed EV transmissions are proven in the industry to offer class-leading performance through superior acceleration and gradeability, while delivering advanced efficiency for the EV system,” claims Mark Kramer, business unit director, ePowertrain, Eaton’s Vehicle Group.
The MoU joins two companies with what is said to be a deep understanding of electrification and mobility. BAE Systems has more than two decades of experience developing and integrating electric propulsion systems, including hybrid and fully electric technology. Eaton has extensive transmission expertise and a proven track record in drivetrain durability.
