Summary
– ZF has produced 1,000 CeTrax lite electric drives for light commercial vehicles since April 2023
– CeTrax lite is an all-electric central drive with a peak output of 150 kW
– The drive powers Isuzu’s ELF EV light distribution truck
– ZF’s Friedrichshafen factory also produces the CeTrax 2 dual electric central drive
– ZF emphasizes that hardware components and software are optimally matched for efficient performance
Article
German automotive company ZF has successfully produced 1,000 CeTrax lite electric drives for light commercial vehicles since commencing volume production in April 2023. The CeTrax lite electric drive has a peak output of 150 kW and is designed to sit centrally in the vehicle frame, replacing the traditional transmission found in combustion vehicles. This central drive is all-electric and can be easily integrated into existing commercial vehicle platforms, making it a versatile and efficient option for electrification.
In response to high demand from Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturer Isuzu, ZF has accelerated its volume manufacturing of the CeTrax lite drive, exceeding initial production targets. The drive is currently being utilized to power Isuzu’s latest light distribution truck, the ELF EV. Additional volume production is set to begin later this year in order to meet the growing needs of customers worldwide. The CeTrax lite drive has been well-received for its optimal matching of hardware components and software, resulting in enhanced efficiency and practical functionality.
Production of the CeTrax lite central drive is taking place at ZF’s Friedrichshafen factory, where it is being used in buses ordered from countries such as South Korea, the US, Australia, and various European nations. ZF is also gearing up to produce the CeTrax 2 dual electric central drive at the Friedrichshafen facility later this year, further expanding its portfolio of electric drive solutions. Kleber Vinhas, the Location Manager of ZF’s Friedrichshafen plant, emphasized the seamless integration of hardware and software in ZF’s electric drives, highlighting the efficiency and effectiveness of the CeTrax lite in real-world applications.
The success of ZF’s CeTrax lite electric drive underscores the company’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions for the electrification of commercial vehicles. By offering a centralized electric drive option that optimally matches hardware and software components, ZF is enabling customers to efficiently transition to electric mobility without compromising on performance or reliability. The company’s ability to ramp up production in response to market demand, as seen with the collaboration with Isuzu, demonstrates ZF’s agility and responsiveness in meeting the evolving needs of the automotive industry.
ZF’s production of the CeTrax lite electric drives marks a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to support the electrification of light commercial vehicles worldwide. With a focus on efficient design and functionality, the CeTrax lite drive offers a viable solution for electrifying existing commercial vehicle platforms, enabling customers to embrace sustainable mobility without sacrificing performance. By expanding production capabilities and introducing new electric drive options like the CeTrax 2, ZF is firmly positioned to lead the transition towards electric mobility in the commercial vehicle sector, driving innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry.
Overall, ZF’s success in producing 1,000 CeTrax lite electric drives for light commercial vehicles reflects the company’s dedication to advancing electric mobility technologies. Through strategic partnerships with leading manufacturers like Isuzu and a commitment to efficient design and performance optimization, ZF is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of commercial vehicle electrification. As demand for electric drives continues to grow globally, ZF’s ability to innovate, scale production, and deliver high-quality solutions underscores its position as a leader in the automotive industry’s shift towards sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation solutions.
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