Commercial Vehicle eMobility –lubrication solutions

Potential hybrid and electric vehicle layouts

EV layouts 1 and 2 are attractive for many existing OEMs with a manufacturing footprint and supply chain because the electrical system drops into a conventional layout. P4 variant hybrids may also be of interest en-route to full electric drive as two separate systems effectively drive different wheels, connected only by the road and control systems.

However, the final destination for ECVs is likely to be closer to EV layout 3 (like many passenger cars) and EV layout 4. These options place the motor in the same axis as the wheels, with either an eMotor and differential combined in an eAxle, or separate drive motors for each wheel.

OEMs will need different solutions at different times and territories to meet legislation in local markets. A mix of these layouts fitting their overall strategy for the energy transition will be required.

Future-proof electrified Commercial Vehicle (eCV) lubricants

Afton is already collaborating closely with OEMs to determine how new lubricant technology can best support the latest hardware, whatever development routes might be pursued.

Considerations such as combined or separate sumps and lubricants, for eMotors that are cooled directly or indirectly, are being taken into account for future-proofing lubrication and enabling new hardware.

Efficiency remains a prime focus for all OEMs, but particularly for CV manufacturers: all options for improved efficiency and reliability are being scrutinised to bring down initial vehicle cost with electrification.

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