ZF Innovation truck 2016
ZF showcased the Innovation Truck 2016 equipped with driving assist systems. The truck is engineered with the world’s first brake assist and related emergency steering controls for heavy commercial vehicles. The Innovation Truck 2016 networks Highway Driving Assist (HDA) system and Evasive Maneuver Assist (EMA) system. The former makes sure the vehicle stays on road and avoid consequences resulting from distractions or lack of attention. The latter detects if the driver has applied brakes. In case a collision is unavoidable, MEA takes over both the tractor and trailer towards a hard
shoulder or free lane riding steering motion of the driver. It is also equipped with SafeRange manoeuvring system that can boost vehicle’s efficiency at terminals. Post the acquisition of TRW in 2015, ZF has stepped up its range of mechatronic systems significantly. In August 2016, ZF acquired a 40 per cent stake in Ibeo, a German sensor expert which leads in the development of LIDAR systems for vehicle safety. At the show, ZF announced that it will be setting up a technical centre at Hyderabad with an investment of up to USD 34 million. The centre will develop advanced software and electronics, and is expected to house 2,500 engineers by the year 2020.
Tailormade solutions from BorgWarner
An updated portfolio for commercial diesel engines at the show for both heavy duty and light duty applications was presented by BorgWarner. The company presented new exhaust gas recirculation ( EGR) modules that integrates EGR cooler, EGR valve and bypass valve into a single system that optimises exhaust gas recirculation and enhances efficiency. Offering tailor made solutions for various powertrain applications like low pressure and high- pressure EGR systems, BorgWarner showcased a system where the EGR cooler is built with corrosion resistant stainless steel hybrid or corrugated tubes, and optimises heat transfer. The EGR valves and actuator technologies offer high flow capability and minimise corrosion. The controlled coolant pump that BorgWarner displayed at Hannover reduces parasitic losses which optimises engine temperature and improves fuel economy by one and a half per cent when compared with a standard coolant pump. It also boasts electronic viscous drive and high modulation capabilities including performing optimally regardless of engine speed for better economy.
Allison aims at fuel efficiency
US- based transmission maker for medium to heavy- duty commercial vehicles, Allison displayed xFE technology and FuelSense with the promise of improving fuel economy in commercial vehicles. The xFE technology is claimed to save up to seven per cent fuel in city and transit buses where constant shifting of speed is involved. The software and electronically controlled FuelSense can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent for increased efficiency. Riding its patented Continuous Power Technology, Allison uses a torque converter that delivers full power shifts and better acceleration. Using automatic transmission, Allison promises minimise power loss that happens in manual or Automated Manual Transmission ( AMT), and deliver better control over a vehicle.
JOST extends its portfolio
JOST displayed trailer axles developed under the JOST brand in collaboration with Mercedes- Benz. It signalled JOST’s acquisition of Mercedes- Benz Trailer Systems, which would make it one of the largest trailer axle manufacturers in Europe. Specially developed for silo trucks and tankers, the JSK 34 sensor coupling version of ultralight JSK 34 fifth wheel coupling premiered at the show. The comprehensive range of JOST products
on display at the IAA CV show included a range of landing gears, including the Modul E- Drive landing gear, which has been developed especially for applications where frequent coupling and decoupling of trailer is involved. The gear reduces height difference between trailer and axles using pneumatic suspension of the vehicle and is operable with a button.
Modular lamp series for CVs by Hella
Hella showcased the modular lamp series for commercial vehicles. It is called the Shapeline series, and includes tail lights, brake lights, position lights and direction indicators in two different design lines, classic straight line style and dynamic curved style. Multi-volt ready ( 12-volt and 24-volt), the modular lamp series is supported by an online configurator, which allows designers and engineers to select different lighting modules for their CVs. The design can be handed to Hella for further development. The configurator accepts current European ECR R48 regulations or American SAE regulations.
Continental
Continental unveiled ‘ ContiConnect’, a tyre information and management system that not only monitors, but also analyses and reports tyre pressure and temperature with its ContiPressure-Check Sensors. If needed, the online portal can also offer corrective measures to the fleet, and will be launched in the second quarter of 2017 in the key Asia- Pacific markets, America markets and Europe markets.
Cummins
Leading engine manufacturer Cummins displayed its heavy duty X12 (12-litre) and X15 (15-litre) engines at Hannover. These engines are designed to meet 2017 EPA-GHG regulations in North American markets, and are Euro VI compliant for worldwide regulations. The company also premiered the G series platform in the form of an in-line six-cylinder 11- and 12-litre engine. The G series engines meet stringent Euro emission regulations. The ISG12 engine does 500 hp and 2300 rpm of peak torque. Demonstrating its prowess, Cummins also displayed new engine component technologies like the mid-range fuel system and CompactBox after-treatment solution.
Bridgestone
Bridgestone demonstrated its innovative Tirematics tyre monitoring system at the IAA Commercial Vehicles 2016 show. Tirematics encompasses all of Bridgestone’s connected tyre solutions; essentially IT systems that use sensors to remotely monitor, transmit and analyse real- time information, such as the pressure and temperature of commercial truck and bus tyres. The Tirematics fleet solution provides added value to fleet operators by taking a proactive approach to tyre maintenance, before serious problems arise. It also helps to reduce vehicle downtime and roadside breakdowns, while optimising tyre life and fuel economy. “Bridgestone’s Tirematics is a practical, cost effective fleet oriented solution with great impact on tyre performance, fuel economy and breakdown prevention” said Neil Purves, Senior Manager Solution Business Systems, Bridgestone Europe.
Delphi next-gen modular CR system for CVs
At the IAA show at, Delphi unveiled an ultra- high precision, modular fuel injection system that builds on the company’s proven Euro VI common rail technology. Promising substantial improvement in emissions, fuel economy and refinement while maintaining exceptional reliability, at the heart of the system is a groundbreaking injector that provides the control unit with real- time information on the operation of the injector. The system has no additional wires and requires no extra interfaces or packaging space. Data from the injector allows the implementation of closed loop control that continuously monitors and optimises injection events to compensate for changing conditions, including wear as the vehicle ages. The closed- loop system eliminates injector calibration to accommodate drift over use. Smaller injection events can be specified while the system eliminates the need to scan the injector characterisation code when an injector is fitted. Capable of covering both heavy duty and medium duty engines, the modular system allows applications from 0.7 litres per cylinder up to 3.0 litres per cylinder and beyond. Particular attention has been paid to materials selection and validation across all known global fuel specifications, allowing application worldwide.
Future tech from Bosch
Bosch displayed large displays and touchscreens that find use in truck for functions like priority warnings. The innovative neoSense touchscreen gives users haptic feedback, and the touchscreen buttons feel real so the drivers can operate them without looking. Simple operation, intuitive menu navigation and less distraction are the benefits. The displays and screen can be integrated with smartphones. The camera-based solution from Bosch at IAA show completely replaces OVRMs. Called the Mirror Cam System, the solution reduces wind resistance and saves fuel. The video sensors can be integrated into the driver’s cab; on the highway the driver can see further behind the vehicle. The connectivity control unit (CCU) is a central connectivity solution for CVs, and communicates via a wireless module equipped with its own SIM card and can determine the vehicle’s position using GPS if desired. CCU is available both as OE and as a retrofit solution. The electronic horizon portfolio that Bosch is expanding, includes real-time data. It allows the engine and transmission management to take construction areas, traffic jams, or even icy patches into account and automatically adjust the vehicle’s speed in advance can further reduce fuel consumption, thereby increasing efficiency. Bosch also displayed app.-based secure truck parking, infotainment system for buses and eyes (camera) and ears (radar sensors) for assisted and automated driving.
Hendrickson focuses on lightweighting and comfort
Hendrickson Truck Commercial Vehicle Systems launched a rear-air suspension in a 9.5-tonne to 13-tonne single axle configuration, and 19-tonne to 21-tonne Tandem axle configuration. It is light in weight, durable and comfortable for highway applications. Claimed to facilitate weight savings of up to 50 per cent over a steel monoleaf spring, the use of an advanced composite spring material is claimed to facilitate fatigue durability. Luxair, a premium drive axle air suspension caters to the rapidly changing bus market. It utilises high volume air springs, and is claimed to deliver passenger comfort, superior handling, and less road-induced shock loads. The Softek NXT displayed, is a monoleaf suspension and steer axle system which caters to heavy-duty truck applications. Its lightweight design (5.4-5.7 tonne) is said to facilitate better fuel economy and payload capacity. The Steertek NXT is a fabricated front steer axle available in the range of seven- to 11 tonne. It is light-weight and durable. It makes a good alternative to the forged I-beam axle and saves 18 kg in comparison.