ZF launches electric trailer solution for sustainable trucking

Proof of concept

ZF is working closely with leading trailer manufacturer Kässbohrer to develop its electric trailer solution. Kässbohrer’s electric curtainsider trailer with TrailTrax system integration was a highlight of the trailer OEM’s display here.

“We emphasize the importance of a broad ecosystem of innovation and partnerships to move the trailer industry forward towards sustainability,” said İffet Turken, Member of the Board of Directors of Kässbohrer. “We are proud to collaborate with ZF in safely and efficiently integrating the electric axle, EBS systems and battery pack into our trailers.

“Our prototyping work is being carried out in our state-of-the-art European R&D centre, with the aim of offering our customers an electric trailer that not only provides operational ease and efficiency, but can also be seamlessly integrated into regular business operations, helping to contribute to CO2 reduction.”

Field tests of Kässbohrer trailers across Europe are expected to begin in 2025 as part of the EU-funded ZEFES (Zero Emission Flexible Vehicle Platforms with Modular Powertrains Serving the Haul Freight Eco System) project.

Trailer manufacturer Krone also highlighted the growing interest in ZF’s TrailTrax technologies by showcasing its solution. A Krone refrigerated trailer with a TrailTrax system was on display at ZF’s open-air stand. The electric Krone trailer, which can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 40%, demonstrates the potential efficiency gains that can be achieved with ZF TrailTrax technologies.

“At Krone, we believe in the importance of electrification in the context of the transformation of the transport sector and are working together with our industry partners to exploit the potential of electric trailers,” said Markus Stegen, General Manager of Product Management and New Markets at Krone Trailer.

Trailer axle and suspension manufacturer BPW took the opportunity to work with ZF on its TrailTrax system.

“Every trailer needs chassis, suspension and braking technology that can be relied upon,” said Markus Schell, managing partner at BPW. “With our axles for 7.5-ton trucks and generator axles for refrigerated trailers, we already have a lot of experience in integrating electric drives. That’s why it makes perfect sense for ZF, a powertrain specialist, to partner with BPW to offer a robust and highly engineered chassis solution with the AxTrax 2 axle, which provides recovery and traction support for semi-trailers and is easily installed by trailer manufacturers and fully trusted by fleets.”