Bosch has introduced a rigid e-axle designed for heavy commercial vehicles with a weight range of 18 to 49 metric tons. This system integrates both the electric motor and transmission directly into the axle, eliminating the need for a traditional propshaft. By mounting the drive unit at the axle, the design reduces overall vehicle weight and improves efficiency compared to conventional center-drive electric configurations.
The new axle utilizes silicon carbide inverters, which Bosch claims can achieve up to 99% efficiency. These inverters feature silicon carbide MOSFETs that minimize energy losses compared to standard silicon IGBTs, resulting in less battery energy being lost as heat. This integration aims to lower operational costs for freight transport operators.
Additionally, Bosch developed a high-voltage blower module specifically for 800 V electric commercial and off-highway vehicles. This module manages cooling for critical components on demand rather than operating continuously. By reducing parasitic loads on the battery, the system helps extend the vehicle's range while allowing for smaller cable and connector sizes due to the higher bus voltage.
