Fraunhofer, Volkswagen Truck & Bus, Cellcentric, Shell, Schmitz Cargobull

A new study from the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research (ISI) has analyzed the future cost trajectory of zero-emission trucks, examining the costs of key components from over 200 sources. The findings indicate that zero-emission trucks will benefit from rapidly falling costs for batteries and fuel cells. The study utilized various cost developments from literature in a meta-analysis, discussing their robustness, temporal stability, and level of ambition. The estimated cost developments were then compared with target costs for technological breakthroughs from other studies and incorporated into a total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis to compare the costs of battery-electric trucks and fuel cell trucks against diesel trucks for the years 2020, 2030, and 2040.

Volkswagen Truck & Bus has developed a prototype electric bus, equipped with an ultra-fast charging battery, enabling it to achieve maximum range in about ten minutes. Built on an 18-ton chassis, this prototype is designed with an estimated range of 60 kilometers (about 37 miles) and can be charged using a 300 kW charger in just ten minutes. The prototype includes four lithium battery packs, each with a usable capacity of up to 30 kWh, featuring niobium-anode lithium batteries. The NTO anode structure (niobium-added titanium oxide) allows for rapid charging and operation at warmer temperatures, increasing battery life and safety while reducing power consumption due to lower cooling requirements. This technology is planned to be expanded to a small fleet for validation purposes, where all components will be monitored in real-time to analyze their performance and enhance the development process. The NTO battery technology is expected to hit the market in 2025.

Cellcentric, a joint venture between Daimler Truck and Volvo, has started pilot production of fuel cell systems in Esslingen, Germany. The pilot facility is designed for gradual automation of production processes to maximize efficiency and quality, featuring a 10,300 square meter space that accommodates production and logistics areas as well as office and administrative spaces. Over 100 employees work at the facility, which offers a complete production under one roof and aims for long-term economic stability through a high degree of automation. Cellcentric intends to develop, produce, and distribute fuel cell systems on a large scale globally, covering the entire ecosystem around fuel cell systems from production to maintenance to recycling at the end of the lifecycle. In addition to planned FCEV trucks for Daimler Truck and Volvo, the systems are also intended for use in other vehicles such as tour buses.

Shell has unveiled a Megawatt Charging System (MCS) specifically designed for heavy electric trucks and electric ships, aiming to set a universal standard eliminating the need for different cables or connectors. The MCS features two separate charging arms: a rotating one for electric ships and another for heavy electric trucks and buses. The capacity of the megawatt charger is equivalent to about three standard 350 kW fast chargers. With a second adapter (CCS2) on each charging arm, the megawatt charger can quickly and flexibly charge a variety of ships, vehicles, and battery types. In the future, the charger is also planned to serve a wide range of inland and port ships like barges, tugs, service vessels, and ferries. Additionally, the charger will be connected to the ETCA's own Smart Grid, facilitating the integration of energy supply, storage and demand. The ETCA network currently includes 3,600 solar panels, stationary battery storage, 119 electric car chargers, a hydrogen electrolyzer, and other research equipment.

Schmitz Cargobull, a leading manufacturer of trailer and semi-trailer systems, provided a preview of its latest developments at a pre-press conference in Vreden, which will be showcased at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2024. With the theme “Delivering Performance,” the company will showcase a wide range of innovations and solutions at the event. Schmitz Cargobull will introduce several new products and services, including updates to its refrigerated vehicles and urban logistics solutions. Notably, the S.KO COOL and S.KOe COOL will feature new equipment options such as a quiet-running floor and a custom-developed rolling door. The S.KO CITY, a new single-axle refrigerated semi-trailer designed specifically for urban distribution, offers space for 36 roll containers or 22 Euro pallets. 

The company is also unveiling new dry freight solutions. The S.BO EXPRESS, a semi-trailer for secure transport of high-value goods in courier express services, is now available with a rolling door. The S.BO PACE is a new dry freight semi-trailer with an aerodynamic EcoFIX body, specifically developed for the courier, express, and parcel (CEP) services industry. 

For combined transport, Schmitz Cargobull offers the A.WF and Z.WF swap bodies and the W.BO swap box. The S.CF and S.CF ALLROUND saddle container chassis have been updated and are now available with an autonomous generator set. Another highlight is the S.CS X-TOUGH saddle curtainsider, featuring a robust chassis and aerodynamic EcoFIX body. New lightweight vehicles like the Berger ecotrail are also being introduced, now available with the complete service offering from Schmitz Cargobull. 

In the tipper segment, the S.KI will be showcased for its increased payload, equipped with TrailerConnect telematics, a digital onboard weighing system, and camera systems. Schmitz Cargobull is also offering new digital services such as Predictive Maintenance, a Data Management Center, and Tour-Track. A new tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) compliant with the new UN ECE R 141 standard will also be introduced. The communication platform “Cargobull PartnerConnect” for Schmitz Cargobull service partners and the start-up FLEETLOOP, a joint venture between commercial vehicle lessor Greiwing and Schmitz Cargobull offering a digital solution for commercial vehicle rental, complete the offerings.