the VE Motion powered trailer concept is best described as a modular and self-contained e-axle solution that adds a 295 kW (~395 hp) electric motor to new or existing trailers, reducing wear and tear on diesel drivelines while ensuring stronger starts, smoother climbs, and shorter cycle times.
Interesting idea to power the trailer, but I’m not really sure if this concept really pays off. It is an hybrid truck that needs to carry two different engines, both adding cost and weight.
Usual weight of a loaded rig is 80k lbs in the usa. And can be running that quite regularly. What ever additional weight these add takes away from that. And running less freight means less money for the truck. More cost for the shipper. I don’t see the investment return. Id be happy to be wrong. Unless they give an allowance for it. There is for apu systems on trucks. But in America right now. Electric bad!! Unless someone greases a few palms. Same problem with the Tesla semi. Limited load capacity. That’s why the are only hauling lays chips and some car parts. Well that and the charge to distance ratio sucks with those batteries. Catl might have something in the pipeline. But nothing from domestic. And 100% tarrifs on Chinese evs.
Edit. Yup. Limited use off road only, or by special permits. They have no mention of weight… And quote hp and not tq? My spidy senses are tingling… I’m guessing that’s going to add for 1 axle and small battery apx 2500lbs. Big battery and 3 axles for heavy haul probably around 7000lbs. For a regular trailer small battery and 2 axles… Probably 4000lbs. Cuts freight by 10%. Your never making this up with fuel cost.
Interesting idea to power the trailer, but I’m not really sure if this concept really pays off. It is an hybrid truck that needs to carry two different engines, both adding cost and weight.
Electric engines require so little maintenance, it’s possible the total maintenance burden would be reduced even with the additional engine.
It also seems like it would be great for saving brakes:
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Usual weight of a loaded rig is 80k lbs in the usa. And can be running that quite regularly. What ever additional weight these add takes away from that. And running less freight means less money for the truck. More cost for the shipper. I don’t see the investment return. Id be happy to be wrong. Unless they give an allowance for it. There is for apu systems on trucks. But in America right now. Electric bad!! Unless someone greases a few palms. Same problem with the Tesla semi. Limited load capacity. That’s why the are only hauling lays chips and some car parts. Well that and the charge to distance ratio sucks with those batteries. Catl might have something in the pipeline. But nothing from domestic. And 100% tarrifs on Chinese evs.
Edit. Yup. Limited use off road only, or by special permits. They have no mention of weight… And quote hp and not tq? My spidy senses are tingling… I’m guessing that’s going to add for 1 axle and small battery apx 2500lbs. Big battery and 3 axles for heavy haul probably around 7000lbs. For a regular trailer small battery and 2 axles… Probably 4000lbs. Cuts freight by 10%. Your never making this up with fuel cost.